Wisconsin student musicians head to UW-Green Bay, May 4
Thousands of dedicated middle and high school student musicians from across the state are preparing for the Wisconsin School Music Association (WSMA) State Solo & Ensemble Festival. UW-Green Bay will host this event on Saturday, May 4 from 8 a.m. to 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 Prof. Kevin Collins (Music), festival manager for UW-Green Bay. “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 225 such events, involving more participants than any other student activity.
“We are extremely proud to support student growth throughout Wisconsin with programs like WSMA State Solo & Ensemble Festivals that contribute to a well-rounded education. The dedication and effort that the students demonstrate is truly inspiring,” said WSMA Executive Director Laurie Fellenz.
Nine other university campuses will host performances by more than 32,000 students, making this event one of the largest of its kind in the nation. UW-Milwaukee, UW-Oshkosh, UW-Platteville and UW-Whitewater will hold festivals on April 27. Cardinal Stritch University, UW-Eau Claire, UW-Parkside, UW-Stevens Point and Viterbo University festivals will be held on May 4. An evening Jazz Festival will take place on May 3 at UW-Green Bay.
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.
Submitted by Kevin Thays
Phone: (608) 850-3566
Email: thaysk@wsmamusic.org
Web: www.wsmamusic.org
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