Panther Jazz Band members earn "All-State" honors!

Four members (Nick Brothers, Sydney Elsenraat, Kyle Saake, and Brendan Hoffmann)of the FZN jazz band were recently selected "All-State" by the Missouri State High School Activities Association. It was a two tier process for those selected to the "All-State" band. In October, band members from across the St. Louis area competed for "All-District" honors, then by virtue of being selected "All-District" band members were allowed to audition for a spot on the "All-State" band at the state competition held in Columbia, MO on December 2nd.

Here is a summary of the musicians from FZN selected to the "All-State" band:

Nick Brothers (Jazz Band Baritone Sax) - This was the second year Brothers has mad e the bari saz chair. Brothers is a senior and is planning to study music business next year. He also plays the oboe and clarinet and was the drum major for FZN's aclamied "Panther Pride" Marching band.

Sydney Elsenraat (Jazz Band Split Lead Trumpet) - Elesnraat is the first sophomore to make the MO "All-State" jazz band from FZN. She has studied trumpet in private lessons since the 7th grade.

Kyle Saake (Jazz Band Alternate Trombone) - Saake is a junior and was named alternate last year as well . He is also a member of the FZN golf team.

Brendan Hoffmann (Honorable Mention Clarinet) - Hoffmann was also the 1st chair clarinet in the St. Louis Metro 8 "All-District" Band. He was the feature soloist in the "Panther Pride" Marching band show this past fall.

Pictured: (left to right)

Picture 1 - Nick Brothers, Sydney Elsenraat

Picture 2 - Brendan Hoffmann, Kyle Saake