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 Festivals. UW-Platteville will host this event on Saturday, April 27 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 Matt Gregg, Festival Manager for UW-Platteville. “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 140 such events, involving more participants than any other student activity.
“WSMA State Solo & Ensemble Festivals provide youth musicians a state-level platform to showcase their growth and achievements. This opportunity is possible because of our state’s exceptional music educators, adjudicators, families and communities who support access to a well-rounded education inclusive of music,” said WSMA Executive Director Laurie Fellenz.
Nine other university campuses will host performances by more than 11,000 students, making this event one of the largest of its kind in the nation. UW-Milwaukee, UW-Oshkosh, UW-Parkside and UW-Whitewater will hold festivals on April 27 also. Carroll University, UW-Eau Claire, UW-Green Bay, UW-La Crosse and UW-Stevens Point festivals will be held on May 4.
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.
Contact: Kevin Thays
Phone: (608) 850-3566
Email: thaysk@wsmamusic.org
Web: www.wsmamusic.org