Two EHS musicians have been selected to Kansas Music Educators Association (KMEA) state-wide honor groups. Justus Browne (contra-bass clarinet) and Addison Penner (violin) will perform in the KMEA 1234A Band and KMEA String Orchestra, respectively, at Century II Convention Center in Wichita on Feb. 28, 2026.
“For the students, our programs, EHS, and for USD 490, this is a prestigious distinction,” USD 490 Orchestra Director Kevin Monroe said.
This is the first time in 10 years USD 490 has had a student be invited to a KMEA state honor band and the first time in 20 years the district has had a student invited to a KMEA state honor orchestra.
Despite a little bit of nervousness about the number of people they will be performing with and for, both students are looking forward to being part of the state honor groups.
“I’m excited to be with the others,” Penner said. “I think we will sound really good since we all worked so hard to get there.”
Working with top student musicians from across the state is also a great way for these two to grown their skill own sets.
“I’m excited about what I can learn from the other players and the director,” Browne said.
More information about KMEA and the honor group performances is available on the KMEA website.
