Ocean Springs High School saxophonist Ryan L. Rhoades is set to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York City.

Selected for the 2012 American High School Honors Performance Series at Carnegie Hall, Rhoades is part of the honors band as an alto saxophone musician. Participation in the honors band is limited to the highest rated high school performers across North America and international schools.

“I didn’t want to audition for the Honors Performance Series, because I was a freshman at the time and didn't think I had a chance of being selected,” said Rhoades, now a sophomore.

Rhoades, however, gave in to peer pressure and auditioned. Now he is set to play a world-famous venue that marks the pinnacle of musical achievement.

“I received my music this week, and it seems I will even get the opportunity to perform a short solo during our performance,” said Rhoades.

“I'm extremely excited and a little nervous,” he continued. “I might have trouble keeping up with the others, but I'm preparing now so I can represent Ocean Springs in a good way.”

Under the direction of Ocean Springs High School band director Joe Cacibauda, Rhoades is a member of the school’s marching, symphonic and jazz bands. He was also selected to both the 2011 and 2012 Mississippi All State Lions Bands. He was selected as first tenor saxophone for the 2012 Lions Band, which performs in Hawaii over the summer.

When not playing music, Rhoades enjoys fishing and playing lacrosse. He aims to attend college and study music and marine science. He hopes to one day work in marine sciences or perhaps teach music.

The American High School Honors Performance takes place Feb. 12, when Rhoads receives the opportunity to perform at Carnegie Hall and get a taste of New York City. The 2012 conductors are Dr. Jeffery Ames, Dr. Charles Peltz and Jeffrey Grogan.

The series was created to showcase accomplished individual high school performers by allowing them to study under master conductors and perform in the celebrated venue, Carnegie Hall. Students from 48 US States, Canada, Germany, Korea and Taiwan have participated. Learn more by visiting www.honorsperformance.org.