While many students spent their October weekends catching up on homework or heading to football games, sophomore Russell Blake spent his performing in the arguably best music event in Montana, All-State. For Blake specifically, playing in the All-State Band.

It was a pretty fun experience overall,” Blake said. “I feel like we performed very well at the concert, and I was very happy with our performance.”

Held annually, All-State brings together top high school musicians from across Montana for several days of intensive rehearsals and one final concert. For Blake, who plays French horn, the experience was both challenging and deeply rewarding.

“My favorite part was playing at the concert,” he said. “My favorite piece was our slow song ‘Only Light’ because of how pretty it was.”

That song, a gentle and emotional contrast to the band’s louder selections, stood out to Blake as a moment where everything came together. Particularly the months of preparation, the long rehearsals, and the shared energy of playing alongside the state’s best.

Despite the achievement, Blake isn’t planning to slow down. His eyes are already on next year’s auditions, as are many other music students. He still aims high, however.

“I’m looking forward to trying out again next year because I want to be principal horn for all of Montana,” he said.

For now, Blake’s second All-State performance marks just the beginning of what looks to be a bright musical future, one piece at a time.