FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 5, 2025

Contact: Allen Haugh, KUHS band director; 541-883-4710; haugha@kfalls.k12.or.us

Klamath Falls, Ore. – Klamath Union High School (KUHS) is celebrating remarkable musical achievements.  After placing first in the district competition, which included students from Ashland, Medford, Grants Pass and other area high schools, sophomore Tommy Biggs secured fifth place in the trumpet category at the 2025 Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) Solo Competition, held May 4, 2025 at Portland State University.

Tommy Biggs

Daisy Kupitz

Ulises Ortega-Delgadillo

Also representing KUHS was junior Daisy Kupitz, who competed in the soprano vocal category. After winning her district competition, Kupitz placed 11th out of 31 competitors. Her strong performance further demonstrates the school’s diverse musical talent.

And senior violinist Ulises Ortega-Delgadillo earned his spot at the state finals by clinching first place at the Southern Oregon district competition. His exceptional talent and dedication to music were further recognized with the prestigious Young Musician of Excellence Scholarship, awarding him $1,050. Ulises’ achievements serve as an inspiration to his peers at KU.

The OSAA oversees 297-member high schools and sponsors 426 interscholastic state championships, including solo music. The solo music competition begins at the district level, across 15 districts. Students qualify for the state solo competition through these district contests, with top performers advancing.

Biggs’ fifth-place finish at this prestigious state-level event made him the first KUHS band member to place since 2009, when former Pelican Alex Peterson earned first place on tenor saxophone. Biggs’s success highlights the resurgence of musical achievement at KUHS and the commitment of the music program under its dedicated directors.

Adding to the excitement, the KUHS band qualified and will compete in the OSAA Band State Championships on May 15, 2025, taking place at Oregon State University in the 4A class. Adjudicators will judge the band on its musicality, technique, and sound quality, as well as the band's sight-reading ability.

In addition, the KUHS orchestra will compete at the OSAA State Orchestra Championships at Oregon State University, having secured their spot by winning first place at the East Cascades Orchestra Festival. "We played our hearts out and won the room, giving us first place and automatic qualifiers to the State Orchestra Competition in May," said KUHS Orchestra Instructor Alexis Candy. The standout performance of the only high school orchestra in the Klamath Basin showcased their talent and dedication, setting the stage for their appearance at the state championships.

The KUHS community is proud of these students’ efforts as well as the band and orchestra’s upcoming opportunity to shine on the statewide stage. Congratulations to Tommy Biggs, Daisy Kupitz, and Ulises Ortega-Delgadillo for representing their school and community with excellence!

Klamath Union Band Car Show Shines with Classic Cars and Community Spirit

The Klamath Union High School Band hosted its first annual Car Show today, transforming the school grounds into a vibrant celebration of classic cars, live music, and community support. With 65 car entries, a lively performance by the KU Band, a silent auction, and delicious concessions from The Dogfather, the event drew car enthusiasts and families alike.

The star attraction was undoubtedly the impressive lineup of 65 classic and custom vehicles, ranging from meticulously restored vintage models to sleek hot rods. Attendees strolled through rows of polished chrome and custom paint jobs, admiring the craftsmanship and stories behind each car. Owners proudly displayed their vehicles, sharing tales of restoration and road trips with eager visitors. The diversity of entries—from 1950s Chevys to muscle cars of the 1970s—highlighted the Klamath Basin’s automotive culture.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, the Klamath Union High School Band took center stage, delivering energetic performances that echoed across the lot. The classic and contemporary tunes in the setlist showcased the talent of the student musicians. The band’s involvement underscored the event’s purpose: raising funds to support their music programs, including travel for competitions, and educational opportunities.

A silent auction offered attendees a chance to bid on an array of exciting items donated by local businesses and supporters. From gift baskets to automotive-themed merchandise and unique collectibles, the auction table buzzed with activity. Proceeds from the auction will directly benefit the KU Band, ensuring continued growth for the program.

“It’s amazing to see our community come together like this,” said Dawn Jones, a KU Band parent and the event organizer. “The cars are incredible, the band sounds fantastic, and everyone’s having a great time supporting a good cause.”

The KU Band hopes to make this car show a beloved tradition in Klamath Falls, blending the nostalgia of classic cars with the energy of youth music and community pride.

As car owners revved their engines and the final notes of the band’s performance faded, attendees departed with lasting connections and a deep appreciation for Klamath’s strong community spirit. The event reaffirmed a shared commitment to keep music education thriving at Klamath Union High School.