Hundreds of music students from numerous area schools will participate in a Wisconsin School Music Association (WSMA) sanctioned Solo & Ensemble Music Festival hosted by Hillsboro High School on Wednesday, Feb. 24 throughout the day.  During the festival, which is free and open to the public, students will perform in band and choir ensembles before a panel of adjudicators.

WSMA music festivals annually attract thousands of students from middle, junior high and high schools throughout Wisconsin. The festival will draw students from a number of area schools, including New Lisbon, Royall, Weston, Wonewoc-Center, and the host Hillsboro Middle and High Schools.

"These festivals are focused on providing a positive learning experience for students with lifelong educational benefits," said Robert Kase, WSMA executive director.

The primary purposes of WSMA music festivals are to:

Improve students’ music performance through assessment

Increase students’ understanding of music literature and music concepts

Motivate students to continue the study of music

Establish standards of excellence in music performance

Provide opportunities for students to understand the relationship of music experiences to other life experiences

For more information on WSMA, go to www.wsmamusic.org.