Stillwater High School junior Josh Hoyt has been accepted into the highly competitive All National Chorus based upon his exceptional scores in New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) solo performances, followed by his successful audition for a national position.

“The All National Chorus is is a prestigious chorus made up of students from across the country who will join together, virtually, from Jan. 22-24, 2022, for an amazing musical experience under conductor Geoffery Boers, an instructor from Washington State University,” said Stillwater High School music teacher Kara Pitkin.

“Josh received this honor due to his dedication to music and his efforts with NYSSMA solos. Based upon the exceptional score he received in the 2020-21 school year, he became eligible to apply for All National,” she added. “Josh then had to submit an additional audition, learning new music, to be considered and was accepted!”

Josh is involved in many music-centered activities at Stillwater. He participates in high school drama productions each year, as well as Community Center Drama Productions and regional musical productions. He is currently cast in “Oklahoma!” and “Honk!” with the Playhouse Stage Company.

At Stillwater Central, Josh has assisted with elementary school drama productions every year since he was in 6th grade.

Josh has participated in NYSSMA solo competitions every year since 5th grade, and All County competitions every year since 6th grade, with the exception of last year, due to the pandemic.

“The All National Chorus is sponsored by the National Association for Music Educators (NAfME),” Pitkin noted. “To achieve this extraordinary experience, a music student moves upward through many different levels, over many years of work and practice. The honor ensembles start locally with All County, then move to Area All State, All State, All Eastern and finally All National.

“Josh plans to pursue a career in music and theatre, so this performance opportunity will be a wonderful addition to his already numerous adventures. A thank you also goes out to the PTA for their support and assistance with Josh’s acceptance into the All National National Chorus.”

 

 Josh practices dance steps with elementary school drama club members. He’s assisted with drama productions there every year since he was in 6th grade.