Railroader’s Son to Perform at Carnegie Hall

Alliance, Nebraska — Aaron “A.J.” Hamburger Jr. will take the stage at the legendary Carnegie Hall in New York City as part of the National Honors Bands Performance Series. A.J. is the son of BNSF conductor and SMART-TD Local 934 (Alliance, Nebraska) Vice Local Chairperson Aaron Hamburger. On February 8, 2026, out of more than 10,000 applicants worldwide, A.J. will join only 350 other students on stage. 

A.J. will perform on his clarinet with the Honors Band, a distinction that recognizes the very best young musicians worldwide. His nomination came from his middle school band director, Shannon Kinsella, whose mentorship helped spark A.J.’s passion for music. After being nominated as an 8th grader, A.J. then recorded four audition pieces in the summer before his freshman year at Alliance High School. A.J.’s performance earned him a place among performers who are typically high school upperclassmen. 

Help Cover A.J.’s Travel Expenses

A.J. and his family are raising funds to help cover travel expenses from Nebraska to New York for this extraordinary opportunity. Supporters can contribute through the family’s GoFundMe page: 
 
Help A.J. Perform at Carnegie Hall ► 

Talent That Runs in the Family 

Music runs deep in the Hamburger family. Aaron Sr. himself played trombone in high school and college, earning a scholarship to attend Western Nebraska Community College, where he performed collegiately before beginning his railroad career. A.J. is being recognized by the National Honors Bands Performance Series for his ability to play his primary instrument (the clarinet), but he doesn’t just play one instrument. He plays eight of them! From woodwinds to brass and percussion, he’s been the kind of student every band director dreams of: a musical “utility player” who can fill in wherever needed. Even as a freshman, A.J. has stood out as the go-to musician who makes the band stronger, deeper, and more dynamic. 

A Proud Reflection of the Railroading Life 

Railroading is a profession defined by a shared goal: providing opportunity for loved ones. 

We go to work every day, fully aware of the dangers. When we see our kids taking advantage of the opportunities our labor provides and when they chase their dreams, it makes the long nights and missed holidays worth it. It justifies the sacrifice. 

A.J. embodies that spirit. His work ethic, passion, and versatility are proof that the efforts of his dad’s railroading life have helped create new opportunities for the next generation. 

A.J.’s career goals include being a “conductor.” Of course, A.J.’s version of conducting is a bit different from his dad’s! 

About the Honors Performance Series 

The Honors Performance Series gives top student musicians from around the world the chance to perform at venues like Carnegie Hall, working alongside renowned conductors and peers. “We processed nearly 10,000 nominations this year and selected the most talented student performers from around the world. Performing at Carnegie Hall is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that these musicians will never forget,” said Marion Gomez, Music Director for the Honors Performance Series. 

Tickets for the February 8th performance will be available through the Carnegie Hall box office, and the event is open to the public.