By Caleb Youngblood, Public Relations Coordinator
April 7, 2026
Ashton Wood (Class of 2027), a junior at the Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science (MSMS), has been selected for the prestigious Mississippi Lions Band, earning placements on both alto and tenor saxophone before ultimately choosing to perform on tenor.
The Mississippi Lions Band is the premier honor band in the state, recognized internationally for its excellence. Established in 1949, the organization has earned numerous international championships and selects more than 100 of Mississippi’s top student musicians each year through a competitive audition process.
“I feel proud getting chosen,” Ashton said. “I independently did my best and earned a strong placement. It also shows me where I stand and reminds me how much I still have to learn.”
Originally from Starkville, Ashton attended Starkville High School before coming to MSMS. His journey with the saxophone began in an unexpected way.
“It was something different that no one believed that I would play,” he said. “My family assumed I might be a drummer or join my brother, an MSMS graduate, playing bassoon. But nothing stood out to me more than the saxophone—it just clicked.”
That connection deepened in eighth grade when Ashton transitioned to a different type of saxophone, an experience he describes as transformative.
“It felt like coming back to the instrument again, all new,” he said. “That was my ‘clicking’ moment—an endless cycle of new beginnings and curiosity.”
Ashton’s curiosity quickly turned into initiative, as he began independently studying music theory, learning new repertoire, and auditioning for honor bands. His dedication has led to numerous accomplishments, including first chair placements in the Mississippi State University Honor Band and the Northeast Mississippi Band Directors Association (NEMBDA) Honor Bands.
At MSMS, Ashton continues to grow as a musician through involvement in multiple ensembles, including the MUW Wind Band, the MSMS Blue Notes, and the student-led Tombigbee Jazz Band. Balancing these commitments alongside the rigorous academic environment at MSMS has been both a challenge and an opportunity for growth.
“It feels like two separate worlds,” he said. “Learning to transition between them felt unrealistic at first. But they both require the same values and commitment. It pushes you to go beyond normal time management and develop a much higher level of discipline.”
One of Ashton’s most impactful musical experiences came during the 2025 Mississippi Lions Band Camp, where he was challenged to refine both his technical skill and musical expression.
“The staff really pushed us,” he said. “It taught me how music should be expressed and showed me that clarity and consistency matter more than anything.”
In addition to his honor band achievements, Ashton recently expanded his musical experience by performing in the pit orchestra for a local production of Hairspray.
“Pit orchestra music was some of the hardest I’ve ever seen,” he said. “You’re interacting constantly and preparing music in just a couple of weeks. It taught me when to stay in the background and when to stand out. It also helped me focus on cues, timing, and adapting quickly.”
Despite the demands of both music and academics, Ashton remains driven by a deep passion for performance.
“It’s this feeling you get when you play,” he said. “An atmosphere that doesn’t come from anything else—it’s hard to describe, but it’s real. You have to learn to love what you’re playing—that’s what keeps you going.”
Looking ahead, Ashton hopes to continue blending his interests in music and science. He is considering a future that could include a double major in instrumental performance and music and science applications, along with potential work in instrument repair, education, or performance.
In a school defined by academic excellence, Ashton’s journey reflects the balance of creativity, discipline, and passion that defines the MSMS experience. His achievements with the Mississippi Lions Band highlight not only his talent, but also his commitment to growth as both a musician and a student.
To learn more about the Mississippi Lions Band, please visit https://www.misslionsband.org