Submitted photoStephen Sykes (left), Kaleb Ward will perform Saturday at Carnegie Hall in New York City.

THOMASVILLE — Two Thomas County Central High School students will perform Saturday at Carnegie Hall in New York City.

Stephen Sykes and Kaleb Ward will perform in the Honors Performance Series established to feature talented young musicians on stage at Carnegie Hall, one of the world’s most famous music halls.

Sykes and Ward, both Thomas County Central High School juniors, were asked to participate in the program and to perform based on their participation and performance in the Georgia All State Choir. 

Sykes described the performance as “a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

“To be able to perform at Carnegie Hall is an experience that I never thought possible,” he said.

Ward said that in addition to the performance, he is excited about experiencing a metropolitan culture.

“I’m also thrilled to be able to have such a great opportunity,” he said.

The TCCHS students will rehearse for several days with renowned conductors, leading up to the 8:30 p.m. Saturday performance at Carnegie Hall’s Stern Auditorium/Perelman Stage.

Much of performers’ time will be focused on performance preparation with their conductor. They also will network with peers and experience sights and performance arts of New York City as important parts of the experience.

Sykes and Ward will work with master conductors and rehearse and interact with other finalists from across the world, board a private yacht, see a Broadway show and visit New York landmarks.

The duo will return home Monday.

Senior reporter Patti Dozier can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1820