Two Rugby students participated in all-state orchestra last weekend at the Bismarck Civic Center.

Rachel Mack and Aubrey Hovland both played French horn in the group, for which they auditioned in Minot earlier this school year.

According to Mack, playing with the most talented students in the state was a big treat.

It was the best horn section I’ve ever played with,” she said. “It was great to play with some of the best musicians in the state. There were some of the pieces that really showed off the horn section.”

Mack said one of the highlights was guest conductor John Devlin, who, despite still being in his 20s, conducts the Capital City Symphony in Washington, D.C.

“We had an amazing conductor,” Mack said. “He was young and very energetic.”

Making the all-state level in band, choir or orchestra is a big honor. Around 2,000 students audition, however only about 100 students make the all-state groups.

Mack said she plans on continuing music in college, even if she doesn’t seek a music degree.