Six Knights Band members were recently selected as 2020 West Virginia All-State Musicians. After several months that included countless hours of practicing and preparation, George Kester, Nachelle Probst, Savannah Ferrell, Matthew Riddle, Makenzie Hakes, and Autumn Shepherd achieved this remarkable accomplishment. The results of their auditions are as follows: George Kester: First Chair Percussion, All-State Orchestra; Nachelle Probst: Fifth Chair Trumpet, All-State Band; Savannah Ferrell: Third Chair Bass Clarinet, All-State Band; Matthew Riddle: First Chair Tuba, All-State Band; Makenzie Hakes: Fifth Chair French Horn, All-State Band; Autumn Shepherd: Sixth Chair Clarinet, All-State Band. They will gather with the other members of these elite groups on March 5 and will perform on March 7 during the West Virginia Music Educator’s Association’s annual conference in Charleston.

George, a senior at TCHS is the son of Mike and Nancy Kester of Middlebourne.

This is George’s second year as an all-state musician. Nachelle, also a senior is the daughter of Brian and Violet Probst of Paden City; Matthew, a junior is the son of George and Stephanie Riddle of Sistersville. This is Matthew’s third year performing as an all-state musician. Savannah Ferrell is a junior at TCHS and is the daughter of Jeff and Cheryl Ferrell of Middlebourne. This is Savannah’s second year as an all-state band member.

Sophomore Makenzie Hakes is the daughter of Bill and Tracy Hakes of Middlebourne and will be appearing for the second year as an all-state band member. Rounding up the TCHS All-State Musicians is freshman Autumn Shepherd, the daughter of Jason and Margie Shepherd of Middlebourne. This is the first time in over 20 years that the Knights Band will be represented by this many members in the All-State Band and Orchestra.