Klamath Falls, Ore – Klamath Union High School (KUHS) is celebrating an exceptional year of musical achievement, highlighted by standout performances at the regional, state, and national levels.
Following a strong showing at the district solo competition on February 28, 2026, featuring students from Ashland, Medford, Grants Pass, and surrounding schools, KUHS musicians advanced to the 2026 Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) State Solo Competition, held May 2 at Portland State University.
At the state competition, junior Tommy Biggs earned third place in trumpet, while junior Seattle Trejo placed fourth in soprano voice, both in highly competitive, heavily subscribed categories. Senior Daisy Kupitz also represented KUHS in the soprano category.
The OSAA supports 297-member high schools and sponsors 426 state championships, including solo music. Students qualify for the state competition through one of 15 district contests, with only top performers advancing.
Biggs’ achievement builds on last year’s fifth-place finish at state, which marked the first KUHS band placement at that level in 16 years.
All three students, Biggs, Trejo, and Kupitz, earned top ratings of 1 or 1- at the district level, qualifying them to perform in the 23rd Annual Young Musicians of Excellence Concert at the Ross Ragland Theater on April 12, showcasing the Klamath Basin’s top young classical musicians. Additional KUHS students selected to perform in this prestigious concert included senior Talon Chancelor (piano), senior Elaina Nork (saxophone), and sophomore Hellen Yang (violin).
In addition to his state success, Biggs was selected to perform nationally as a member of the 2026 Jazz Band of America, part of the Music for All National Festival held March 26–28 in Indianapolis. Chosen through a highly competitive audition process, Biggs joined one of the nation’s premier high school honor ensembles.
The Jazz Band of America is widely recognized for its excellence and provides students the opportunity to rehearse and perform with distinguished conductors and guest artists. The 2026 ensemble featured guest artist Summer Camargo, a member of the Saturday Night Live band and Jazz Band of America alumna.
“These accomplishments reflect not only the talent of our students, but also their dedication and hard work,” said Drew Langley. “It was exciting to watch them perform in Portland. We are incredibly proud of how they represent KUHS and our community.”
