Klamath Falls, OR – December 9, 2025 – Klamath Union High School proudly celebrates the exceptional achievement of six student musicians who were selected to perform at the 2025 Western International Band Clinic (WIBC), held November 21-24 in Seattle, Washington. WIBC is one of the premier honor band clinics in the United States, drawing top high school musicians from across the country and around the world.
From more than 2,700 auditionees across the western United States and beyond, only 600 were chosen for the four elite honor bands. The following Klamath Union musicians earned their places based on ability:
Thomas Biggs – Trumpet
Bentley Harmon – Flute
Lonmonte Jefferson – Clarinet
Daisy Kupitz – Standing Bass
Elaina Nork – Alto Saxophone
Tanner Reit – Trumpet
Additionally, percussionist Ethan McCalister was named an alternate.
Over four intensive days, the students rehearsed and performed under renowned guest conductors, including internationally acclaimed composer and conductor Tyler S. Grant; Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser, a legendary figure in music education since the first WIBC in 1979; Dr. Elizabeth Peterson; and Erik Leung, Director of Bands at Oregon State University. Many of these leaders guided the bands through their own compositions, giving students the rare privilege of performing under the creators of the music.
The clinic opened with an inspiring address by Dr. Lautzenheiser to all 600 students. He reminded the musicians that true leadership is not something you do, but something you are, inspiring everyone to become the best version of themselves.
Each evening concluded with outstanding concerts featuring two of the band world’s most celebrated soloists: jazz trombonist Harry Watters and tuba virtuoso Patrick Sheridan. Before the conference began and after the final performance, the Klamath Union group, accompanied by band director Drew Langley, explored Seattle landmarks such as Pike Place Market and the downtown waterfront.
The experience peaked on Monday morning, when each of the four honor bands delivered powerful performances. The concerts culminated in a breathtaking grand finale, with all students on stage for a massive, enveloping sound that created an incredible, unifying experience for performers and audience alike.
While the students rehearsed, Drew Langley—who has attended WIBC for 27 consecutive years—participated in the directors’ clinic, continuing his own professional growth alongside the nation’s top band educators.
“This trip highlighted the leadership, work ethic, and dedication these students bring to everything they do,” said Langley, Assistant Director of Bands at Klamath Union High School and Director of Bands at Ponderosa Middle School. “Music builds discipline, resilience, and the ability to work as a team toward a shared goal. It teaches grit and perseverance—qualities that serve students throughout their lives. Best of all, music is one of the few passions you can enjoy throughout your entire life—whether performing professionally, jamming with friends in a community band or garage group, or simply sitting in the audience feeling the power of a live performance. These students have discovered a lifelong gift and forged friendships that will last forever.”
This year marked the triumphant return of Klamath Union musicians to WIBC after a long absence, made possible by the renewed commitment and generous fundraising efforts of the Klamath Union High School Band Boosters, along with parents and community supporters.
Klamath Union High School congratulates Thomas, Tanner, Daisy, Lonmonte, Bentley, Elaina, and Ethan on this outstanding accomplishment and looks forward to their continued growth as musicians and leaders.
