After dedicating countless hours to practicing his instrument and consistently refining his musicianship throughout high school, Jayden McCall emerged as the top-ranking 6A All-State Musician. Outshining thousands of euphonium players in Texas as first chair in the 6A All-State Band, he’s looking to pursue a performance degree at the University of Michigan, taking his musical aspirations to the next level.

McCall explains what first got him interested in band, and why he chose the euphonium.

“Euphonium was an obscure instrument and that’s what piqued my interest,” McCall said. “My older brother played tuba in middle school so I thought that playing the “mini tuba” would be fitting for me.”

Although McCall’s music career journey started on a wholesome note, his journey wasn’t without obstacles.

“I started band with little to no experience with anything music-wise, and I was constantly in the bottom few in my early years,” McCall said. “I will always remember the email I got from my middle school band director Adam Davis, which said that I was one off from making the region band in 7th grade. Ever since then, I never had a day of rest and put in the hard work to make it to where I’m at.”

McCall obtained countless achievements during his high school career including becoming a 5A All State Musician sophomore year and winning the International Euphonium Tuba Festival junior year, however, he considers his greatest achievement to be one he accomplished this year.

“I think my biggest accomplishment is making first in 6A this year,” McCall said. It was really important to me because last year was a bit of a shortcoming by not making State at all but this year I surpassed even my own expectations.” 

Although McCall is currently busy with college auditions and solo competitions, he looks forward to enjoying his last semester in high school and is thankful for his band community.

“I really want to thank my Mom and Dad for supporting me throughout my journey,” McCall said. “I also want to thank my band directors, Ms. Dunham and Mrs. Roberts, for providing me with countless opportunities to improve and excel as both a musician and leader.”