A passion for making memorable music has led two Thomas County Central High School students to final recognition by an esteemed summer workshop, the Georgia Governor’s Honors Program.
GHP caters to the best and brightest minds and talents amongst the state’s youth. TCCHS junior Joshua Stephens is a finalist in the area of jazz bass.
“I feel extremely honored to have been selected to be a part of GHP, and I am very pleased that all the work I have done throughout the application and audition process has come to fruition,” he said. “To me, making GHP means I have been able to express my dedication and passion for music well enough that I will get to spend my summer trying to learn all that I can about music.”
Stephens, 16, is passionate about music and enjoys playing the bass.
“I take pride in the music I am able to make with it,” he said. “The thing I enjoy the most is the way jazz is so different than other forms of music. Jazz is something I like to listen to and to play, and it has become a very important part of my life since I joined jazz band in my sophomore year.”
The road to being named a GHP finalist is a long and intricate one. First, a teacher nominates an individual and the school selection committee reviews the recommendation. The application process then begins. It includes essays covering the nomination area, volunteer work, extracurricular activities and expectations of involvement in GHP.
“For music applications, you must submit a brief video of yourself playing a selection with a reasonable level of difficulty,” Stephens said. “If your application is accepted, you become a semi-finalist, which involves an in-person audition with sight-reading and a prepared etude, as well as an interview.”
Then, semi-finalists await the GHP selection committee’s final decision.
Stephens is appreciative to all individuals who helped him attain this honor. He anticipates the upcoming immersive experience.
“I most look forward to meeting new people and making new friendships,” the youth said. “I am also very excited about learning new music, especially music that will challenge me to become a better musician. I hope to gain new experiences in music, as well as new skills and friendships. I look forward to this summer, and I am very excited to become the best musician that I can be!”
Classmate Kaleb Ward is an alternate in the area of voice. He chose this field because of his experience in it.
“I most enjoy the expression you can put into singing,” he said.
Being an alternate means if someone else selected cannot attend, Ward could have a chance to fill the slot. Ward is appreciative of being named an alternate and hopes he might yet get to take part in this year’s program.
GHP will be held June 16-July 13 at Berry College.