Five Cinco Ranch choir students will attend the 2014 All-State Choir Convention in San Antonio February 12-15.

After competing in a series of four auditions — District, Region, Pre-Area, and Area — freshman Kenneth Fernandes and seniors Ryan Pierson, Meredith Taylor, Madison Rice and David Tait were named All-State choir members.

Fernandes, Pierson, and Taylor are first time winners, while Rice and Tait are second and third time veterans.

“This is actually my first year to make it,” Taylor said. “I’m extremely excited. I’ve only heard wonderful things about the program!”

2014 All-State women’s choir member Meredith Taylor and her fellow All-State members endured months of preparation before being named to All-State chairs, putting in hours of practice time and undergoing critiques from directors and voice teachers.

“Our directors are extremely helpful when it comes to [preparing],” Taylor said. “They are very willing to help at any time they have available during the school day and stay after school to help. Mrs. Wilson even made a rehearsal schedule for the winter holiday during which she came to the school and helped us to prepare for the final audition.”

Taylor also emphasized the importance of self-preparation.

“One other thing to make sure of is that you are keeping your voice healthy,” Taylor said. “When auditions come around you need to be sure you are in the best condition to do well.”

In addition to these hours of practice during and after school and during Winter Break, some choir students attend an All-State camp over the summer.