RAPID CITY, S.D. – Rapid City will welcome some of the state’s most talented young musicians tonight as the South Dakota 75th Annual All-State Band comes to town for a special performance, starring guest conductors Dr. Caroline Hand from the University of Oklahoma and Dr. Rebekah Daniel from Eastern Kentucky University.

This year, four Central High School students were selected for the All-State Band: euphonium player Christopher Giesey, alto saxophonist Benjamin Long, percussionist Zander Waddell, and four-year All-State French horn player Aya Kuroiwa. When asked what All-State Band means to them, both from a student and teacher standpoint, they shared the impact of the experience.

Aya Kuroiwa said, “All-State Band is a great opportunity to learn what it’s like to practice in an environment where everyone is working toward a more professional goal than a normal band class. I’ve met a lot of people I connect with so easily because they understand you, share similar interests, and want to work toward that same goal of performing.”

Central High School Band Director Andrew Belsaas said, “All-State Band is about connecting musicians from all over the state and bringing them together to create a concert greater than they could accomplish on their own. It’s about friendships and new experiences, and I’m excited to host here in Rapid City and show off our facilities at Central High School.”

The event will take place tonight, Saturday, March 28, at the Fine Arts Theatre inside The Monument. Doors open at 2:30 p.m., and the concert begins at 4:00 p.m. Admission is $10 per person at the Box Office.