December 20, 2024 - Two Comal ISD students have been selected for the All-State Jazz band through the Association of Texas Small School Bands (ATSSB). With this honor, Cody Brannon, a senior at Canyon Lake High School, and Caleb Atkins, a junior at Davenport High School, are considered among the top jazz musicians in the state.
This is the second consecutive year for Brannon, who plays the baritone saxophone, to earn this honor. In addition, he will serve as first chair for the All-State Jazz band. Atkins, who plays the trumpet, will serve as fourth chair.
This is the eighth time a band student has earned a chair in an All-State ensemble from DHS in its five years. All-State Concert Band auditions are in January.
Auditions for All-State Jazz begin each fall across Texas with the best high school band students selected to rehearse and perform during the annual Texas Music Educators Association Clinic/Convention in February.
The 2025 All-State Jazz Band for ATSSB will be conducted by Ronald Wilkins, Shires Trombone Artist and New York musician. The ATSSB has commissioned a piece for the All-State Jazz Band that will be premiered at the concert which is scheduled for 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio during the TMEA Clinic/Convention.
Performances by the best student musicians in our state make this convention an unequaled opportunity for professional development and inspiration.
Brannon is taught by CLHS director of bands Ed Gonzales; Atkins is taught by DHS director of bands Jeffrey Keyes.
Photo Description:
-Two Comal ISD students were selected for the All-State Jazz Band. Canyon Lake High School senior Cody Brannon and Davenport High School junior Caleb Atkins.