Solo and ensemble musicians scored top marks at the district competition on April 7, allowing 12 students to advance to state on May 1 at Pacific University for ensembles, and May 2 (at Lewis and Clark University) for soloists.

“When I found out I honestly thought it was a dream,” said junior Marjorie Sheiman, who placed first in Mezzo voice. “I still can’t believe I’m going on to represent PPS. It’s a little daunting.” The last time Lincoln sent a singer to state was two years ago, when senior McKenzie Messer earned second at district.

Solo and Ensemble is a statewide competition for students in who take band or choir. Those who take first or second in their event at districts move on to the state competition.

“Even if you aren’t trying to be competitive, participating in solo and ensemble will make you a better musician and will able you to more significantly contribute in class,” said Doree Jarbo, extended choir substitute teacher and former choir director at Grant. Sheiman chose to take the more competitive approach. In preparing for district, she regularly took voice lessons and practiced with her accompanist. “I also practice in front of my friends and family to get comfortable performing,” Sheiman said.

Senior Penn Armstrong will be representing Lincoln and PPS at state for his fourth year in a row in solo euphonium. As a sophomore he advanced in both euphonium and tuba. “Solo and Ensemble Festival is an opportunity for me to work harder and become a professional musician in the future,” Armstrong said.

DISTRICT RESULTS:
Advancing to state:
Wesley Shin – Clarinet
Joanne Lee – Cello
Jonathan Huang – Cello
Allie Edwards – Marimba
Conrad Garrison – Timpani, Orchestral Snare, Rudimentary Snare
Penn Armstrong – Euphonium
Marjorie Sheiman – Mezzo (voice)
Joanne Lee, Nate Francis, Renee Zhang, JP Tsai, and Quinn Anderson – Strings Quintet

Alternates to state:
Justin Huang – Violin
Cameron Joublin – Bassoon