05/19/2026
MIDWAY MUSIC SENIOR SPOTLIGHT
In 5th grade, Jersey started to learn how to play the clarinet. Since then, she has become one of Midway's most decorated music students. Jersey made her first appearance with the high school band in 8th grade, playing with them for that year's winter concert. In high school, Jersey has played in the band for four years. She is also a founding member of the Midway jazz band. Although she played the tenor saxophone for one semester, Jersey has primarily played the alto saxophone in jazz band. In addition to clarinet and saxophone, Jersey also played the bass clarinet for one concert while she was still in middle school. In 10th grade, Jersey made the decision to join the Midway choir. After joining, she quickly became an integral part of the alto section. In addition to band, jazz band, and choir, Jersey was also a member of Midway's first ever community band last summer.
Jersey has competed at the regional music competition all four years of high school. In that time, she qualified for state fives times, once as a soloist and four times as an ensemble member. At state music, Jersey has received three state stars. In 2025, Jersey was recognized for her efforts and achievements in band when she received Midway's Outstanding Instrumentalist Award. This year, Jersey was recognized again for her contributions to the entire music program as she received Midway's 2026 Outstanding Musician award.
In addition to performing in the choir and bands, Jersey has contributed to the music program in a variety of ways. She has taught clarinet lessons, taught recorder lessons, assisted with instrument demos, managed Midway Music social media, served as a music aid, organized the music library, and has helped with other tasks as well. Jersey has also served as the captain of the band for the past two years. Outside of music, Jersey has been involved in volleyball, softball, NHS, and several other activities and organizations. Jersey also helped start a weekly Bible study that meets before school.
Jersey loves many of the songs that she has performed. Some of her favorite choir songs are Irish Ballad by Joyce Eilers, Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen, and Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy by Frank Mets. A few of her favorite band pieces are Send in the Clowns by Stephen Sondheim, The Planets by Gustav Holst, and Of Courage and Valor by Ed Huckeby. Her favorite jazz band piece is Georgia on My Mind by Gorrell/Carmichael. Jersey's favorite music memory is going to state music.
About her time in the music program, Jersey said, "The music program allowed me to meet new people, find my closest friends, and interact with others that I normally wouldn't. I just love everything about playing music at Midway."
Jersey plans to attend NDSCS for dental hygiene next semester. She also plans to continue her passion for music with the NDSCS music program. We're proud of you and thanks for all you've done for Midway!
