For the first time in Central Heights’s history, a student has qualified for the state band competition two years in a row.
Junior Ben Poston advanced to state for the second time on February 14, 2026, at the Lila Cockrell Theatre in San Antonio after placing first at area.
The path to All Region and Area involves several levels of competition.
“At region, I competed against players from Region 21 who went to schools 4A or smaller, and I got 2nd chair,” Ben said. “At Area, I competed against players from 3A schools or smaller in all of East Texas from Houston to Dallas in order to qualify for State.”
Years of auditions have led Ben to several Region, Area and State achievements.
“I have advanced to All Region five times, twice being in middle school,” he said. “I have advanced to Area three times and this year is my second time making the All State Concert Band.”
Reaching All State is a major accomplishment for Ben because it is rare that it happens.
“It means a lot to me,” Ben said. “It is the highest achievement a band student can achieve and I’m thrilled that I’ve reached this goal twice.”
Preparation plays an important role before stepping into a huge audition.
“Typically, preparation begins months before the audition,” Ben said. “It is important to familiarize yourself with the music so you’re as confident as possible for your audition.”
Auditions can be stressful, especially early on, but experience over time helps build confidence and make each audition easier.
“When I first started having auditions, I really struggled, but honestly the thing that has helped me most is experience,” Ben said. “Every bad audition experience I’ve had has helped me prepare for my next audition. Also, only thinking positive things about yourself helps you be more confident.”
Looking ahead, new goals continue to drive improvement and growth in band.
“My goal for next year is to make State again, but I want to challenge myself, and I think I will try out for 4A State which means I will be competing against kids from larger schools,” Ben said.
The experiences and opportunities that come from these competitions make all the hard work worth it for Ben.
“My favorite part about these competitions is playing with the other musicians and being able to make music. It’s pretty surreal as at each clinic this is the only time that this group of people will rehearse and put on a concert together,” Ben said. “For any younger band student who hasn’t gotten to experience the region or all state band, the practice that you have to put in to achieve it is worth it as the experiences are amazing.”