Central High Senior Hits High Note: Nolan Hylton Ranks 3rd in State
WISE, VA – Nolan Hylton, a senior at Central High School, has achieved a rare and prestigious honor by earning third chair in the All-Virginia Band and Orchestra. This placement officially recognizes Hylton as the third-best high school trumpet player in the entire state of Virginia, a distinction that transcends school size and geographic region. Nolan has been involved in band since the 5th grade, when he first began playing the trumpet. What started as an introduction to music quickly grew into a deep passion and a clear professional aspiration. His dedication and talent earned him a full scholarship to the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA), a top-25 school for music performance, where he hopes to become a professional orchestral musician.
With the goal of becoming a professional orchestra musician, Nolan has already gained valuable experience, including auditioning for and performing with the Symphony of the Mountains in Kingsport. These opportunities have strengthened both his performance ability and commitment to his craft.
The journey to the All-Virginia ensemble is a rigorous, multi-stage process:
District Level: Hylton first had to secure a spot in the top four of the All-District Band. He surpassed this requirement by earning second chair.
State Auditions: Moving on to James Madison University, Hylton competed against more than 70 of the elite trumpet players from across Virginia.
The Result: His performance earned him the third overall seat, a feat rarely seen in Wise County or the City of Norton.
A Rare Achievement for Southwest Virginia
Local educators note that only two or three students from the Wise County and Norton areas have earned seats in this ensemble over the past fifteen years. Upon looking at archives, Noah believes he is one of few students to have earned a seat in the “Orchestra” category. Noah’s lifelong trumpet instructor, Donald Sorah states:
"I’ve had the privilege of teaching Nolan for the past two years, and his growth has been the result of an incredible work ethic and determination. Earning third chair in the All-Virginia Band means he is one of the very best trumpet players in the entire state of Virginia, regardless of school size or division. That is an extraordinary accomplishment, and it’s especially meaningful to see a student from Wise County achieve this level of success. Nolan has worked tirelessly for this moment, and I couldn’t be more proud of him.”
His musical journey was inspired by his aunt, Janie Short, who passed down the instrument he still plays today. Her influence, along with her own educational path at UVA Wise, helped shape his early interest in music. Additionally, the support of his grandparents, who provided access to lessons, played a significant role in his development. Through those lessons, he built strong habits of discipline, accountability, and perseverance that continue to guide his success. Hylton’s achievement is a testament to his discipline and the high caliber of musical talent present in Southwest Virginia.
Wise County Public Schools proudly congratulates Nolan Hylton, from Central High, on this prestigious fine arts honor!
Our alumni spotlight features Emma Chandler Mullins, Class of 2020, from Central High School.
Wise County Public Schools is eager to learn about and share alumni highlights from its graduates! Please click here to complete a submission form: https://forms.gle/ADQAbVxjGmieZA6R9.
You may access the newsletter by clicking the following link:
https://wisecova.edurooms.com/engage/wise-county-public-schools/newsletters/march-2026-newsletter
⏰ Reminder: Daylight Saving Time
Students, parents/guardians, faculty, staff, and community members:
Please note that Daylight Saving Time begins on Sunday, March 8, 2026. Clocks will move forward one hour (clocks move from 2 a.m. to 3 a.m.).
Enjoy the beautiful weekend!
Today, Friday, March 6, is National School Maintenance Worker Appreciation Day! 🛠️🏫
Our school maintenance team works behind the scenes every single day to keep our buildings clean, safe, and running smoothly for students, staff, and families. From fixing leaks and clearing sidewalks to setting up classrooms and responding to emergencies, their dedication helps make our schools great places to learn and grow.
Please join us in saying THANK YOU to the incredible maintenance professionals who take such great care of our schools and community. Your hard work does not go unnoticed, and we appreciate everything you do!
Wise County Public Schools is extremely grateful for Mr. Gary Lawson, Director of Facilities and Maintenance, and the department he leads!
Our alumni spotlight features Hailey Polly Bryant, Class of 2019, from Wise Central High.
Wise County Public Schools is eager to learn about and share alumni highlights from its graduates! Please click here (https://forms.gle/ADQAbVxjGmieZA6R9) to complete a submission form. Please note that submissions will be featured in the order they are received.
