RENTON, WA (Monday, April 19, 2010) – The Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) and the Washington Music Educators Association (WMEA) are proud to present the 2010 WIAA/WMEA/Dairy Farmers of Washington/Les Schwab Tires State Solo and Ensemble Contests, this Friday, April 23, and Saturday, April 24, at Central Washington University in Ellensburg.  The ensemble competition will be held on Friday, and the solo competition will follow on Saturday, with both performances beginning at 8 a.m. each day.  Admission is free to both events.

The ensemble contest includes small and large ensembles in seven categories: woodwinds, brass, percussion, strings, women's vocal, men's vocal and mixed vocal. There are 29 solo categories, including seven woodwind, five brass, four percussion, four strings, and six vocal categories, as well as piano, guitar and harp. 

This event provides the opportunity for the finest of Washington's high school music students to hear one another in a competitive situation. From 22 regional contests, the winners in each category advance to the state competition where first, second and third places are selected.

The performance schedule for the weekend is available at www.wmea.org and information on tournament regulations and past contest results can be accessed at www.wiaa.com by clicking on ‘Athletics & Activities,’ then ‘Activities’ and ‘Music.’  For more information on both events, contact Bruce Gutgesell, State Solo and Ensemble Contest Manager, at 425-771-7859.

The Washington Interscholastic Activities Association exists to assist member schools in operating student programs that foster achievement, respect, equity, enthusiasm and excellence in a safe and organized environment.