11 BPHS students have been chosen to represent Bethel Park in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association Honors Band. 

Seniors Josh Anischenko (percussion), Emma Davin (clarinet), Caroline Greiner (clarinet), Austin Habbyshaw (trumpet), Rachel Kinlan (clarinet), Ben Light (alto saxophone) and Joe Wasko (tuba) will be representing Bethel Park.

Along with them are junior Jake Lisak (percussion), sophomores Alexandra DeRose (clarinet) and Shayaan Meyers (bass clarinet), and freshman Anthony Lucchitti (percussion) .

Lucchitti states that students in grades 9-12 were able to audition for the honors band on October 5 at South Fayette High School in front of a panel of three judges.

Neighboring counties are also participating with and accompanying the Bethel Park students in practice and performance. They practice November 14, 21, and 22 and perform November 22 at BPHS.

The music pieces are more difficult than what regular band classes require, so the musicians have to work diligently in the couple days they have to rehearse with the whole honors band ensemble.

Habbyshaw said, “This band is a gateway to other big bands like district band, district orchestra, and all-state band. It also looks very good on a college resume.”

“It’s a good experience because it allows you to get experience with auditioning and learning a very challenging piece of music,” said Davin. “You also get to learn how to play with new people that you have never met before and you learn from different directors.

The honors band practices and performs at BPHS. Conductor, composer, producer, and performer Brian Balmages will be leading and conducting the group.