Klamath Union High School’s band program is celebrating strong showings from its students at the Southern Oregon Music Educators Association (SOMEA/OMEA District 8) Winds & Percussion Solo and Ensemble Festival, held this past Saturday, February 28, 2026, in Ashland, Oregon. In this district-level contest high school musicians perform prepared solo pieces, receive ratings and feedback from adjudacators, and vie for advancement to the OSAA State Solo Contest.
KUHS standouts brought dedication and skill to the stage:
Seniors Aeris Saindon (bassoon) performed “Bassoon Sonata” by Georg Philipp Telemann, and Elaina Nork (alto saxophone), played a vibrant rendition of the “Sonata” by Lawson Lunde.
Junior Tommy Biggs (trumpet) impressed with his technically demanding performance of Hummel’s Trumpet Concerto.
Freshman Oliver Case (trombone) delivered a strong and confident performance of “All ‘Antica” by Alphonse Goeyens.
In outstanding news, Tommy Biggs placed first in his instrument category, earning his spot to advance to the prestigious OSAA State Solo Contest on May 2, 2026, at Portland State University. Biggs finished fifth in the 2025 State Solo Contest.
Also gaining valuable experience were talented students from Ponderosa Middle School—the future “Pelican Flight Path” feeders who will soon join the KUHS band program. Showcasing their musical talents were Braedon Henderson (percussion), Jonah Kupitz (trumpet), and Oliver Coslet (trumpet).
Congratulations to all who competed! Your achievements inspire the entire KUHS family and the next generation of Pelicans. Keep practicing; greater stages await!
