Several freshmen from Cranbury Township have been selected to perform with the Princeton High School Studio Band, the most advanced of the five bands at Princeton High School.
By: Matthew Rick
Several freshmen from Cranbury Township have been selected to perform with the Princeton High School Studio Band, the most advanced of the five bands at Princeton High School.
"These are highly motivated students," said band director Joe Downey.
Freshmen Steven Hellstern, Joe Kirkenir and Arthur Zysk all play trombone in the band. Arthur plays both the standard and bass trombone. Max Currier was selected to play trumpet and Kelly Orcutt was chosen for her vocal abilities.
"There’s always a new challenge in this band," said Arthur.
According to Band Director Joe Downing, the band is highly competitive. It travels to music competitions across North America and students must show advanced music abilities during their audition to earn a spot with the band. They must also be able to keep up with the band’s rigorous work schedule by attending all school and night practices, while still practicing several hours a week at home.
In addition, the students must maintain satisfactory grades in their other studies in order to keep their position.
The students understand that it is a great accomplishment for freshman to hold these coveted seats in the band. Members of the Studio Band meet every day during school time to study and play various advanced musical literature including big band and jazz music. They also meet twice a week to practice at night.
"The director is great, he really supports us," said Joe.
Throughout its 30-year history, the Studio Band has competed and won many awards in numerous competitions with a high level of success.
In 2005, the Studio Band swept the Heritage Music Festival in Montreal, placing first in every category it entered. It also received a special Adjudicators’ Award.
Mr. Downey and his students are preparing to enter the oldest and largest high school jazz festival in the country at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. The competition runs March 16 through 18.

