Wisconsin student musicians head to UW-Oshkosh for State Solo & Ensemble Festival

Thousands of dedicated middle and high school student musicians from Wisconsin and contiguous states are preparing for Wisconsin School Music Association (WSMA) State Solo & Ensemble Festivals.

UW-Oshkosh will host this event on Saturday, April 25, from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. It will be open to the public and free of charge.

"The WSMA State Music Festival is an enriching experience for all participants, both performers and their supporters," said Dr. Nathan Krueger, festival manager for UW-Oshkosh. "It is also an opportunity for our music program to showcase our facilities and emphasize how much we value and support the efforts of our school music colleagues, their students and their families."

Students must earn a "starred first" rating in Class A (which consists of the most difficult music) at a WSMA District Music Festival to qualify for WSMA State Music Festivals. The participants, in grades 6-12, can choose from a variety of instrumental and vocal solo and ensemble categories for their performances in district festivals throughout the state. Over the past six months, WSMA has held over 130 such events, involving more participants than any other student activity.

"WSMA State Solo & Ensemble Festivals provide a platform for Wisconsin's musical youth to showcase growth and achievement, enriched by meaningful adjudicator feedback that guides continued learning. This opportunity exists because exceptional music educators, adjudicators, school administrators, families and communities work together to ensure all students have access to a well-rounded education inclusive of music," said WSMA Executive Director Laurie Fellenz.

Ten university campuses will host performances by more than 11,000 students, making this event one of the largest of its kind in the nation. UWM Peck School of the Arts, UW-Platteville and UW-Whitewater will also hold festivals on April 25. Carroll University, UW-Eau Claire, UW-Green Bay, UW-La Crosse, UW-Parkside and UW-Stevens Point festivals will be held on May 2.

Learn more about WSMA State Music Festivals and other programs by visiting wsmamusic.org. Festival information, including schedules and results, will be posted as available.