Orchestra beaming with pride after Carnegie Hall performance

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — It's a prestigious honor for some Oklahoma high school musicians that has them still beaming with pride. The orchestra from Classen SAS at Northeast just recently performed at New York City's legendary Carnegie Hall.

The students are sharp and rarely fall flat with Kimberly Banz as conductor.

"She puts us to work," said Kymree Bedford, a senior violinist.

Classen SAS at Northeast is an application school in the Oklahoma City Public Schools district.

"Our students have to apply, then they have to audition to be in the orchestra program as a 'strings major' however any student in the school can join orchestra," said Banz.

"We got to wake up by like 7 a.m. and they're like, 'we come in here, do our hardest play, and then we get the class,'" said Bedford. "It's really worth it."

The orchestra has the awards to prove it.

Their most recent accomplishment is playing at New York City's Carnegie Hall on April 14 during a national festival, only for elite choirs, bands, and orchestras.

"We were chosen out of groups from all across the country," said Banz.

It was a once in a lifetime experience.

"Definitely surreal," said Jonah Fletcher, a sophomore cellist. "The reverb and the noise bounces off the walls and it just sounds so nice."

Needless to say, it was nerve wracking, especially with a solo.

"It kind of took over the experience almost because of the nerves, and I practiced solo a lot to make sure that it was in check," said Alyssa Penrod, a sophomore violinist.

"It was definitely the best performance we've had yet," said Mally O'Brien, a sophomore violinist. "It was so incredible for all of us to experience together."

While the music is what brings these students together, they all said their bond is the secret to their success.

"Being able to interact and get close with the people you're making music with, it not only allows for the music to speak louder and have more emotions but it's fun," said Fletcher.

"My hope is that they will always love music," said Banz.