Approximately 150 student musicians across Clark County have been selected to participate in the ninth annual North County Honor Band this year. The North County Honor Band performance will be held on February 3, 2024 at 6 p.m. at Hockinson High School. The concert is free and open to the public.
Students from Battle Ground, Camas, Hockinson, La Center, Ridgefield, Washougal and Woodland will participate in the county-wide performances. North County Honor Band students are first recommended by their school band director, then undergo a selection process based on ability and accomplishments.
“North County Honor Band is a truly collaborative effort between band directors of some of our smaller middle and high schools in Clark County to expose some of our exceptional musicians to a high-quality musical experience,” said Corey McEnry, band director at Hockinson High School.
North County Honor Band is a prestigious opportunity for top student musicians from across Clark County to perform alongside one another, under the guidance of esteemed guest directors. The middle school honor band will be directed by Jeff Wilson, band director at Rex Putnam High School and Alder Creek Middle School in the North Clackamas School District. The high school honor band will be directed by Dr. Erik Leung, director of bands at Oregon State University.
“We’re so proud of our band students participating in North County Honor Band this year,” said Lora Brandt and Jennifer Hodapp, band directors at Canyon Creek Middle School and Jemtegaard Middle School, in a joint statement.
Six students from Jemtegaard Middle School and five students from Canyon Creek Middle School were selected for North County Honor Band this year.
Canyon Creek Middle School students
Pictured left to right: Charlotte Murray, Cheyenne Jackson, Jacob Wall, Eli Rish, and Grady Johnson were selected for North County Honor Band.
Jemtegaard Middle School students
Pictured left to right: Rebekah Nelson, Deaglan McGrath, Thor Richardson, Amberlinn McBee, Kylie Woodruff, and Nia Black pose with their instruments at Jemtegaard Middle School in Washougal.
“It is a huge honor and a testament to all of the work that they’ve put into developing their art in band class,” said Brandt and Hodapp.
School music programs create opportunities for students to explore their interests, develop their talent, and share their passion with our community. North County Honor Band unites band programs across Clark County to recognize student excellence and encourage artistic expression. For more information about the North County Honor Band, please contact Hockinson High School Band Director Corey McEnry at (360) 448-6450.
