Kansas Intercollegiate Orchestra

Kansas Intercollegiate Orchestra

The Kansas Wesleyan University Orchestra is thrilled to announce a significant achievement with eleven talented string musicians selected to perform with the esteemed Kansas Intercollegiate Orchestra (KIO). Taking place at the Kansas Music Educators Association (KMEA) In-Service Workshop. 

The KIO alternates its KMEA appearance with the Kansas Intercollegiate Band. Representing the pinnacle of collegiate orchestral talent in Kansas. This year, our KWU students successfully navigated a highly competitive audition process held in December. Demonstrating their exceptional skill and dedication. They were chosen from a pool of accomplished musicians representing a diverse array of Kansas institutions. These schools include K-State, KU, Pittsburg State University, Bethany College, Friends University, Barton Community College, Washburn University, and MidAmerican Nazarene University.

Our students’ participation in the KIO not only provides them with an invaluable performance experience alongside their peers from across the state. While also serving as a powerful demonstration of the high caliber of musical education offered at Kansas Wesleyan University. The KMEA In-service workshop offers high school students a chance to witness the collaboration and artistry of the KIO, inspiring the next generation of musicians.

The eleven fantastic KWU players who made it into the KIO are: Vy Le, Maria Stanislow, Reese Kimmi, Abigail Ramos, Merissa Bailey Rios, Aubreigh Heck, Adrian Aranda, Luke Moore, Lucas Nutter, and Emma Haag.

KWU KIO players

KMEA

Kansas Music Educator Association includes much more than playing in the intercollegiate experience for college students. Many music majors from KWU attended the convention, getting the opportunity to go to workshops to prepare future educators. As well as booths from music stores across Kansas. One of the biggest music stores is Kansas, it is right in Salina, S.M. Hansen. They attend KMEA every year, promoting their store and selling accessories for instruments or teachers.

Student Experiences

Maria Stanislow & Abby Ramos solo at KWU

Leading the KWU orchestra as concertmaster is Maria Stanislow, a junior Music Education major from Junction City, specializing in string orchestra. This marks her second performance with the KIO group. Her first being during her freshman year, which also allowed her to participate in workshops tailored to her major. “I enjoy getting to play with amazing players from around the state of Kansas,” Stanislow shared.

Abby Ramos, a violinist from Garden City and junior Biology major. She has dedicated her college years to the KWU orchestra, participating all three years. Notably, Ramos has twice earned a place in the intercollegiate orchestra, a significant achievement, particularly during her freshman year. Her passion for the violin, which began in middle school, remains a driving force.

Cynder Toman, a Salina native and junior Music major, contributes her violin skills to the KWU orchestra, but her primary focus at the KMEA convention is professional development. For the past three years, she has prioritized absorbing the valuable information and resources that support her aspirations of becoming an orchestra teacher. “Getting to browse the booths is my favorite part of the convention!” Toman exclaimed, highlighting the practical benefits for her future career.

KWU Music Department