For Braden Cook, a passion for music is a constant force in his life that allows him to convey emotions beyond words.

“Music has been in my life since before I knew it really mattered,” he said. “Now I use it as a way of communication.  It is something that stays the same no matter what changes I go through.”

A love of music is one reason why Cook and two of his Stevenson High School bandmates have been honored as among the state’s best student jazz musicians.

Cook and Jimmy Esho were selected by Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association for the Spring Honors Jazz Ensemble. Stevenson Senior Dillon Warner was honored as a runner up.

“It’s an amazing opportunity for them to be recognized,” said Stevenson band teacher Michael Sekich. “We are proud that our school will be representing the east side of this region.”

Esho, a trumpet player with the jazz band, wind ensemble and marching bands, said he was honored by the selection.

“It means a lot to me,” he said. “I am honored to be the trumpet player selected to represent Utica Community Schools.”

Warner, a senior who plays the alto saxophone, adds the MSBOA honor to a long list of accomplishments, including selection last year for the American School Band Directors Association (ASBDA) 2022 National Honors Band.  He will pursue a double major this fall in performance and education.

"There is a completely unique emotion that happens when you perform,” he said. “I can’t describe it, but it is something I need in my life.”