Sparta musician playing with the best

SPARTA-Andrew Huelsenbeck, a senior at Sparta High School, recently received a national recognition in music and was honored by the Sparta Board of Education. Huelsenbeck was chosen by the National Association of Music Educators into the Hershey All-USA High School Band as second chair for clarinet. Student musicians selected for the Hershey's All-USA High School Band are nominated by directors and teachers from all across the United States. The students are evaluated based on their academic achievement, musical training, experience, and activities. Those proceeding to the semi-finalist level submitted recorded auditions. Members of the 257th Army Band and The United States Army Band "Pershing's Own" in Washington, D.C. adjudicated the auditions and selected the final band members. "The most important aspect of Andrew's personality is his tremendous desire to excel. He always wants to learn more and enjoys looking at things from many different angles. I have always admired his drive for perfection, humility to accept criticism and courage to take on new challenges with a smile," said Sparta High School music teacher Deborah Gianuzzi, who nominated Huelsenbeck for the honor. Superintendent, Thomas Morton explained that the Hershey's All-USA High School Band provides an opportunity to highlight students who have achieved excellence through the benefits of music education programs, as well as recognizes the labor of the music teachers such as Deborah Gianuzzi who contributes in so many ways to the development of students as musicians and individuals. "As I have individually developed and matured, I have realized that music is a fundamental part of our existence and truly is the universal language. I listen to learn, I play for passion, and I compose to express and challenge myself," said Huelsenbeck.