On Saturday, January 29, 2022, five Blaine High School band students each played a solo at the San Juan Music Educator Association's Solo & Ensemble Contest at Bellingham High School.
- Stephanie Boczek - Alto saxophone - grade 12
- Byanca Holguin - Flute - grade 11
- Sabrina Boczek - Trumpet - grade 10
- Maddy Reiss - Flute - grade 10
- London Fletcher - Euphonium - grade 9
A note from Band Director Bob Gray about these students and the event;
"Each of these dedicated young musicians played with great skill and style. They had to work on their solos independently with very little assistance from me. Three of these students were asked to rehearse outside of school with an accompanist as the Blaine SD was remote only last week.
The SJMEA Solo & Ensemble Contest involves High Schools from four counties and hundreds of student solos & ensembles. While this event is part festival, it is also part contest where 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards are given in each instrument or voice category. Of the five Blaine students who performed, two have received special recognition. Byanca Holguin placed first for flute solos and Stephanie Boczek placed second for alto saxophone solos. The winners in each category are invited to perform at the Washington State Solo Contest in April. Those who placed second (1st alternate) are sometimes invited to perform at State as well, if space allows. Outstanding job ladies, way to represent Blaine High School and the Blaine community. I'm so very proud of all of these student/musicians. Go Borderties!"
Thank you to these musicians for representing our community. Performing solos can be a nerve wracking experience, and yet you took on the challenge and worked hard to make it happen. Congratulations on your achievements. You exemplify The Blaine Way and make us all very proud!