February 6, 2024 – On Saturday, February 3, SSHS choir took 20 students to UIL Solo & Ensemble contest at Marshall High School. All 20 students received a medal for their hard work, preparation, and commitment to artistry. 16 of the 20 students qualified for Texas State Solo & Ensemble.
Solo & Ensemble is a time when I see a lot of musical and personal growth from the students. Very little time in class is spent on learning and preparing. The students have to be internally motivated to rehearse independently and responsible in scheduling times to work with me after school. They also learn to gracefully accept criticism and using feedback to fuel their performance. We’re lucky to have great accompanists working with us. Chad Houk, Mary Ellen Kirkland, and Melissa Bilyeu are crucial to helping our students succeed.
The following students received 1st division rating on their solo. marks state qualifiers Mika Boren
Ka’Lecia Christman
Adriana Espinoza*
Finn Friddle
Caitlin Foster*
Kaisy Garcia Hidalgo*
Mikel Godwin*
Katie Henderson*
Ben Lovelady*
Celeste McCoy*
Reese Offutt*
Mars Patterson*
Braylen Savage*
Xen Simmons*
Karisma Stegient*
Jaya Smith*
Jamie Tavera*
Jaiden Wade
Bailee Wilkerson
The following students qualified for TSSEC with their ensemble(s). marks more than one ensemble Mika Boren
Caitlin Foster
Mikel Godwin
Alan Guzman
Ben Lovelady
Celeste McCoy*
Reese Offutt*
Mars Patterson*
Xen Simmons
Jaya Smith
Beth Cole (she/her)
Sulphur Springs HS Choir
Region IV Vocal Chair
