BETHEL — Two talented musicians who always seem to know what to do and when to do it were chosen to represent Telstar High School in the All New England Honors Band Festival at Plymouth State College late last month.

Karen White, 17, of Albany Township, 17, who has played trombone for nine years, and Megan LaCroix, 17, of Greenwood, who has played alto saxophone for nine years, joined 225 students from around New England for the event.

Five high schools in Maine sent student musicians to the festival.

Their music teacher, Jennifer Bennett, said both girls have strong leadership qualities.

Megan, who plans to enter the University of Maine at Farmington next year to study elementary education, was honored by the nomination and the experience.

“It was scary, but it opened me up to other people and to a difference in band styles and conductors,” she said.

Karen liked the new experience, too.

“It was the next step up,” said Karen, who plans to eventually become an obstetrician.

She is already preparing for a medical career by taking the certified nursing assistant program at the Region 9 School of Applied Technology.

Both girls got their start learning a musical instrument in SAD 44, when all children in the fourth grade had the opportunity to choose an instrument and receive lessons.

“The saxophone called to me (to learn),” Megan said.

While both girls don’t plan to further their education with their instruments after high school, Megan believes she’ll continue with it for fun, or maybe in the UMF band.

She likes all kinds of music and if she’s in a bad mood, when she walks into her music classroom, the day brightens up.

“When I play, I put my heart and soul into it. It’s a great way to get rid of anger,” Megan said.

Karen has a sense of accomplishment when she plays her trombone, which she said has always been an interest of hers.

Both girls also are members of the high school chorus, and both take part in theatrical productions — Karen as a performer, and Megan in technical support.

Megan and Karen, along with the middle and high school bands and choruses, will present the 14th annual winter concert at 7 p.m., Dec. 20, in the Helen Berry Auditorium of Telstar High School.

Admission is free, but donations will be accepted.