LSMSA's Abby Sims (’25) Named to LMEA All-State Mixed Choir as First Chair Alto 2

LSMSA student Abby Sims (’25) was recently named First Chair Alto 2 by the Louisiana Music Educators Association (LMEA)’s All-State Mixed Choir for the ’24-’25 school year. Sims is a native of West Monroe who plans to study journalism and English as an undergrad. This is the third time Sims has been named to LMEA’s All-State Ensembles, which are announced each January following two rounds of juried auditions. She was previously named First Chair of the All-State Women's Choir in Ouchita Parish in 2021. First chairs are typically regarded as the most talented performers in their district or state.

 

“I felt prepared going into the auditions, but I wasn’t expecting to be named First Chair,” Sims said. She added that her experience studying with LSMSA’s Mr. Gregory Wascoe, Instructor of Voice and Chorale, helped prepare her to perform at the highest level. “Taking voice lessons from Mr. Wascoe, he is really very helpful and ‘there’ for his students.”

 

 

 

 

Mr. Wascoe said that it is “truly an honor” to teach a student like Sims.

“Abby is an exceptionally motivated and driven student who consistently goes above and beyond in her efforts,” Mr. Wascoe said. “Beyond her musical abilities, Abby brings an uplifting spirit and a friendly demeanor to Chorale. She is both an effective leader and a role model among her peers.”

ABOUT MUSIC AT LSMSA
LSMSA students may audition to take private lessons in piano, voice, or most instruments. For those with no prior training, entry-level classes are offered in voice and piano. Students can also take Music Theory and Composition, and LSMSA vocalists have many opportunities to perform in Chorale (a classical choir) as well as in solo performances and a number of state and regional competitions. Advanced pianists and instrumentalists can also prepare solo recitals and participate in state and regional competitions. Instrumentalists can audition for the LSMSA Wind or Chamber Ensembles, and some even perform with ensembles at Northwestern State University, including the Natchitoches/Northwestern Symphony.

For more information, or to apply for admission to LSMSA, visit www.LSMSA.edu/apply.