MSBOA Celebrates Outstanding Student Musicians

Michigan student musicians took center stage at the MSBOA Showcase Concert on May 8, 2026, at Oakland University, as the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association recognizes outstanding soloists, small ensembles and jazz performers from across the state.

This year’s Outstanding Soloist Competition, held April 10 at Eastern Michigan University, featured 109 students. Four winners were selected and invited to perform at the Showcase Concert:

• Bailey McClain, alto saxophone, Waterford Kettering HS
• Bradlee Coggins, marimba, Holly HS
• Saya Farrell, oboe, Walled Lake Central HS
• Clara Paulson, horn, Ann Arbor Pioneer HS

Finalists and Winners of the 2026 MSBOA Outstanding Soloist Competition

MSBOA also announced the small ensembles selected to perform. Chosen from 54 submitted recordings, these outstanding groups were featured at the concert:

• Grandville High School Saxophone Quartet
• Saline High School Clarinet Choir
• Troy High School Violin Duet
• Clarkston High School Percussion Chamber Ensemble

Results of 2026 MSBOA Outstanding Ensemble Competition

Additionally, the MSBOA Showcase Concert highlighted students in the association’s first-ever Honors Jazz Combo under guest director Scott Gwinnell. This talented ensemble included:

• Ryker Tourcotte – Alto Sax, Mona Shores HS
• Joe Kline – Tenor Sax, Ludington HS
• Denver Selph – Trumpet, Clarkston HS
• Drew Werner – Trombone, Rockford HS
• Jackson Gwizdala – Piano, Bay City Central HS
• James Bittner – Bass, Troy Athens HS
• Ethan Wells – Drums, Northview HS

These honors reflect the strength of music education across Michigan and the impressive work being done by students, directors and school programs throughout the state.