February 27, 2023

The Dripping Springs High School band had a successful outing at the Region 18 Solo and Ensemble Contest on Saturday, Feb. 25, at Hays High School with 14 soloists and three ensembles qualifying for the state contest.

Students advance to the UIL State Solo and Ensemble Contest by memorizing a Class I solo and receiving a “I” rating from the judges. Overall, 85 DSHS soloists and four ensembles earned a “I” rating on their performances. 

The UIL State Solo and Ensemble Contest will be held May 27 in Austin.

STATE QUALIFIERS

Omar Acosta, Alto Sax

Grace Bertram, Baritone Sax

Jace Byrd, Trombone

Drew Darilek, Tuba

Wyland Diehl, Soprano Sax

Kaitlin Jennings, Horn

Everett Kling, Alto Sax

Alyssa Lantz, Flute

James Lee, Euphonium

Matt Lourens, Bassoon

Gavin MacAlpine, Clarinet

Kalle Thomas, Tenor Sax

Carter Upton, Alto Sax

Isabella Verhulst, Oboe

Clarinet Choir: Logan Bell, Eric Brown, Elliott Kling, Gavin MacAlpine, Woody Mau, Eli McKee, Dylan Moore, AJ Waller

Saxophone Quartet: Omar Acosta, Reese Alford, Blythe Balsdon, Alex Zhou

Trombone Choir: Keegan Ballard, Elliot Bibeau, Jace Byrd, Graham Lord, Joe Ortiz, Barrett Ross, Isaac Surface