CHICO — Chico High School sophomore Catalina Huss is taking the music world by storm.
Huss is an oboe player and has been named first chair in the California All State Music Educators Conference Symphonic Band and Northern California Honor Band, while also earning first place in the North State Symphony Young Artist Competition and the Paradise Symphony Orchestra Arlene Harms Young Artists Competition. Huss is grateful for every opportunity.
“My dream is to become a professional symphony musician, and all of these opportunities to play with such talented musicians and conductors have really made a big impact on my life,” Huss said. “I’m so grateful that this journey has led me here, and I hope to become even more immersed in the beauty of music.”
Huss is the first Chico High School student chosen for the All-State ensemble since the 2012-13 school year, according to a press release. Huss was singled out for her talent by world-renowned conductor and composer Julie Giroux. Huss has also been studying music privately with well-known Chico music teacher Susie Lundberg for years. Lundberg plays first chair oboe for the North State Symphony.
“This recognition speaks volumes about Catalina’s commitment to her craft and her ability to excel in competitive environments,” said Chico High School Instrumental Music Director Ruben Morales. “It’s a testament to both her talent and her hard work.”
Huss has also earned opportunities to perform and grow. She has been invited to perform with the North State Symphony as a featured artist, and at the Paradise Symphony’s May 5 concert. Huss has been awarded a full scholarship to attend the Sequoia Chamber Music Workshop at Cal Poly Humboldt this summer.
Huss and Morales each expressed gratitude to the Chico High School Music Boosters for paying entry fees to the contests and conferences.
“The support we get from our community is crucial for our individual musicians and our entire music department,” Morales said.
Huss began playing music in the fifth grade and has been playing consistently since then. She joined the school band. She said her parents have been really supportive of her.
“My mom is a musical theater teacher at Chico Junior High School and grew up in L.A,” Huss said. “She was really into music and wanted to be an opera singer. Arts have always been a big part of my life.”
Morales is very proud of Huss.
“Catalina is an incredible musician,” Morales said. “As a teacher it’s nice to see a student who pushes themselves that hard. She really wants to be the best she can be.”
Huss practices every day, sometimes for up to four hours. She is also taking classes at Butte College and Oregon State for music theory.
Huss plans to become ta professional musician, which she started aspiring to in the seventh grade.
“Becoming a classical oboist is my dream,” she said.
Huss’ next goal is join the Sacramento Youth Symphony.
