Ethan Evetts said that there is a common misconception when it comes to high school band.

The Wright City senior said that while the performance is important, it’s not the only thing that guides those who play music as their passion.

“Band isn’t about the music, it’s about the people,” Evetts said. “I’ve met some amazing people through band and we’ve all bonded over the same goal. (It is to) be the best musicians we can be. I’m honored to have had the opportunity to work with the saxophones this year, each one brought something special that made me want to continue doing band in the future.”

If Evetts’ current situation is any indication, his future in music will be a bright one.

At this fall’s district jazz and concert band competition in Moberly, Evetts earned first chair baritone saxophone in the Honorable Mention Band and made the alternate spot for both Jazz and Concert band.

Those distinctions mean he will get to audition again for the All-State Jazz Band and All-State Concert Band in December.

“It felt special,” Evetts said. “When you’re up against seven or eight other people who you don’t know their skills, it’s a lot of hoping that you have a slight edge over them. I did not expect to make the honors band; I had not done enough, I felt like, to warrant the honor.”

Evetts, who has been playing the baritone saxophone for three years, won the John Phillip Sousa award and was second chair honors band last year and was first chair conference band.

“I have also gone to state for the brass quintet, which was a huge honor,” Evetts said.

Band Director Jessica Colvin said that Evetts’ honor can’t be overstated.

She said that the competitive nature of the competition in which he excelled makes the recognition stand out.

“These auditions are highly competitive,” Colvin said. “They only take two (baritone) saxophone players and one alternate for the band out of all of the players in our district.”

As far as the coming competition goes, Evetts said that he aims to just play to the best of his abilities.

“My goals are to be able to take everything at tempo, be more accurate with my notes, and do the best I can,” Evetts said. “There are some amazing players out there and I’m honored that I even have the opportunity to audition. Whether or not I make it, it still makes me happy that I had the opportunity.”

While his sights are squarely set upon the all-state competition, Evetts said that he would like to make sure music stays a part of his life.

“I’m trying to figure out what the future holds for me,” Evetts said. “I hope that music will always be a part of my life. Music has always been my passion and has impacted every aspect of my life.”