Standing Ovation: HCPS Musicians Head to Western Region Orchestra

A digital collage features twelve student musicians from Henderson County Public Schools who were selected for the 2025 Western Region Honors Orchestra. Each student is shown in an individual portrait holding their respective instrument, including violins, violas, cellos, and a trumpet. The background of the image has a light gray music note pattern. The title on the left side reads '2025 Western Region Honors Orchestra Musicians' in bold black and red text. At the bottom center, the Henderson County Public Schools logo is displayed, featuring a red apple with a missing puzzle piece and the organization's name in blue and red text.

Henderson County Public Schools (HCPS) is proud to announce that 12 talented student musicians have been selected to participate in the prestigious Western Region Orchestra (WRO) Clinic in Boone, February 28-March 1, 2025. This achievement showcases the exceptional music education programs in our district and the dedication of our students and teachers.

The WRO auditions are highly competitive, drawing students from 50% of North Carolina’s school districts. Participants must prepare an advanced solo piece, master complex scales, and demonstrate Grade IV sight-reading skills.

Our outstanding HCPS representatives for the 2025 WRO Clinic are:

East Henderson High School

Director: Jennie Quinn

Natalie Almanzar, cello
Karina Konko, viola
Steven Thompson, Bass

Hendersonville High School

Director: Amanda Tant

Rochely Chagala Gallardo, viola
Oliver Duffey, violin
Lila Feather, violin
Deepika Haywood, cello
Jeeva Haywood, violin
Iver Hunt, viola

North Henderson High School

Director: Tracey Mumford

Geovanny Magana, cello

West Henderson High School

Directors: Tiffany King (Orchestra) & Allen Klaes (Band)

Wilson Brittain, horn
Teague Atwell, trumpet

These accomplished musicians will have the opportunity to rehearse and perform with other talented students from across Western North Carolina at Appalachian State University. This experience not only enhances their musical skills but also provides valuable exposure to college-level music education.

“We are immensely proud of our students’ achievements,” said Mark R. Garrett, Superintendent of Henderson County Public Schools. “Their selection for the Western Region Orchestra Clinic is a testament to their hard work, the dedication of our music educators, and the strong support for arts education in our community.”