Jonathan Woda.
Westglades Middle School eighth grader and bass player Jonathan Woda has earned a coveted seat in the All-State Honors Orchestra, placing him among Florida’s most accomplished young musicians.
Woda will perform at the Florida Music Education Association’s All-State Festival in Tampa in January 2026 after securing his spot through a highly competitive statewide audition in September.
A devoted member of the Westglades Orchestra since sixth grade, Woda spent much of his summer practicing and refining his technique to prepare for the audition — dedication that paid off when he was selected for the elite ensemble.
A resident of Cypress Head in Parkland, Woda lives with his grandparents, who have watched his musical journey from the very beginning. His grandfather, Jerry Woda, recalled how Jonathan’s relationship with the double bass began.
He signed up for orchestra as an elective the summer before sixth grade and attended the Westglades summer orchestra camp led by conductor Alberto Zilberstein.
“Before the camp, Jonathan told us he planned to play the violin,” his grandfather said. “After the first day, I picked him up, and all the kids were carrying home the instruments they chose, except Jonathan. I asked him why. He said he changed his mind and decided to play the bass, which was too big to take home every day. I think Mr. Z had something to do with this decision.”
Often described as “la crème de la crème” of Florida’s student musicians, the All-State Honors Orchestra brings together the state’s top performers for an intensive three-day rehearsal schedule during the annual FMEA conference. Students rehearse for about eight hours a day before closing the event with a formal concert.
Jonathan practices almost daily, usually between 30 and 60 minutes. In addition to performing in the Westglades orchestra and chamber orchestra, he was invited this year to join Camerata Di Magdalena, a Coral Springs–based Baroque youth orchestra. The ensemble rehearses for two hours every Friday and performs concerts across South Florida, raising money to feed the homeless.
“We are very proud of Jonathan for being accepted into the All-State Honors Orchestra and representing the Westglades Middle School Orchestra,” Zilberstein said, praising his skill and commitment.
Woda will join top young musicians from across Florida when he takes the stage in Tampa this January.
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