Spain Park senior to participate in All-State Orchestra

In her seven years of playing clarinet, Spain Park High senior Katherine Hunter has racked up several honors: two-year section leader in the Jaguar band, two years in the Alabama Symphony Youth Orchestra and an invitation to perform in the All-State Band. 

This year, Hunter is adding to that list with her selection to participate in the All-State Orchestra.

“Katherine is an outstanding young musician,” Spain Park band director Chris Neugent said.

Hunter auditioned through an online recording and was chosen for a spot in the orchestra, which will perform this month at University of Alabama. Hunter said she received her sheet music in December to practice for the All-State Orchestra Festival.

Neugent said Spain Park typically has two or three participants in the orchestra each year. He’s excited for Hunter to represent the Jags, especially since she’s a standout both in the band and in her classwork. Hunter was recently chosen as a National Merit Scholar semifinalist.

“She’s a rock star everywhere she goes here at Spain Park, both in the music room and in the academic classroom,” Neugent said.

Hunter and the All-State Orchestra will perform Sunday, Feb. 14, at 1 p.m. in the Moody Music Hall at the University of Alabama.