This past February, Senior Jake Cline, was finally placed into Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors Association’s All-State Orchestra. After four years of auditioning and being qualified from Senior Regional Orchestra, Cline was able to audition and claim his spot as the 12th chair cellist.

“Last year I was an alternate,” said Cline. “So my experience for All-State so far is very slim.”

The preparatory rehearsals and performance will be a completely new experience for Cline. However, since he was very young cello has been a main feature for Cline.

“I started playing cello when I was in 4th grade,” said Cline. “Because of a strong program at my elementary school.”

Director of Music Miranda Fitzgerald started working with Rockbridge when Cline first started his freshman year.

“Jake was incredibly quiet and shy as a freshman.” said Fitzgerald. “I had no idea he could even play cello until a quarter into his freshman year and when I heard him play, I knew that there were opportunities within the state that Jake could more than readily participate in because of his abilities.”

Many musicians struggled with quarantine, since it limited many opportunities for growth and expression. However, Cline was able to find personal and musical growth through this time.

“He hardly ever spoke,” said Fitzgerald. “During lockdown Jake positively transformed and emerged from the COVID cocoon as the goofy, sweet, kind person we know him today.”

Throughout the music department, Cline has excelled as a cellist, a percussionist, a string bassist, a student conductor, a drumline captain, and as a drum major.
“My greatest inspiration for cello actually isn’t cello players,” said Cline. “But powerful leaders and icons in the world. I love to realize their power and confidence in my playing.”

Fall of 2023, Jacob Cline is committed to attend the University of Kentucky to study both music performance and education.

“My goals for the future are to get a doctorate in educational policy making to ensure that schools have wider access to good music programs.”

To find more information on All-Virginia Orchestra visit Here. Their upcoming performance will be on April 29 at the Greater Richmond Convention Center.