Tabor College served as host to the Class 4A State Solo & Small Ensemble Festival on May 11.
The event featured 1,070 students from 53 Kansas high schools, allowing Tabor to showcase its campus and facilities by welcoming the largest music festival it has ever hosted.
After a tornado traveled through Andover, Kan., on April 29, Andover Central High School was unable to host the event on April 30. That left a limited window for these musicians to compete and perform before the end of the semester. Tabor became one of the best options for replacement venues, allowing the students to finish the competition.
“What a wonderful opportunity for Tabor College,” said Dr. Sheila Litke, festival coordinator and Tabor performing arts department chair. “We, as a music department, are honored that the Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) felt we had the facility and ability to host the event and plan and organize it within 12 days.”
Instrument and vocal performances were spread across campus, allowing over 1,500 visitors to interact with faculty, staff, and students and experience campus life at Tabor.
“With directors coming from all across the state, many left amazed with the beautiful campus, facility, and staff that we have,” Litke said. “I couldn’t be prouder of the student helpers, my colleagues, as well as the many faculty and staff that helped throughout the entire festival. We have certainly put Tabor College on the map.”