Vocalist qualifies for all-state for second time

Junior Austin Shortes will be performing in the Small School All-State Choir in San Antonio at the Texas Music Educators Association state convention on Feb. 17.

“I’m excited to see the people working hard get happy,” Shortes said. “I like to see the directors excited and passionate.”

Forty vocalists auditions for Bass II, and Shortes placed in fourth chair. Shortes previously qualified for the all-state choir as a freshman.

“Ever since I didn’t make it last year, I worked hard to make it this year,” Shortes said. “The reason I didn’t make it last year was because I was too shy, but this time I got over it.”

Shortes has been practicing his music since the summer.

“I like the music, but the music from June and August is starting to get annoying” Shortes said. “I am more than ready.”

Shortes is excited to be involved in the all-state choir, but there are challenges.

“Right now, it’s trying not to over sing, I just want to keep it in the good area,” Shortes said. “I want to improve my ability to feel the music and emotionally understand it.”

Since Shortes was young, choir Director Eric Hindman has been his mentor.

“I definitely would not be where I am, if it wasn’t for him,” Shortes said. “Our families have known each other since my childhood, and he taught me how to sing and helped me sound better.”