Soloists Make it to State

Griffith Choir Students Travel to Indianapolis for Competition

Maxwell Schroader, Staff Reporter ♦ March 8, 2026

Juniors Jeanne Pressler and Mya Munsie hold up their medals from state on February 21. Pressler and Munsie both attempted group 1 solos for the first time this year.

Students from Griffith High School’s choir program performed solos at the state level on Saturday, February 21 at Perry Meridian High School in Indianapolis.

The Indiana State School Music Association (ISSMA) hosts an annual competition for student musicians across the state. Students who choose to perform a solo or ensemble at the district level may qualify for state if they earn a gold rating on a Group 1 solo.

“While I’m performing… I always have a smile on my face, even if I mess up, I always have a smile.” Junior Mya Munsie said.

Five students from Griffith went to state this year: Seniors Nicholas Grahovac and Natalie Wadkins, Juniors Mya Munsie and Jeanne Pressler and Sophomore Naomi Durall, contributing to the pool of over 1700 entrants for state this year. Senior Emma Kidd also qualified for state but did not perform.

“The students have to perform for me before the contest,” Griffith Music Teacher, Mr. Dore said. “It’s part of the ISSMA rules that the director can choose if a student is prepared enough to go to contest.”

Mr. Dore published the list of Group 1 solos given by the state at the start of the year and encourages students to select a piece they truly like, as only select pieces are permitted for Group 1 solos.

“This has been probably one of my favorite solos I’ve ever done… it’s just so fun and bouncy.” Munsie said, regarding her solo

Of the five students that made it to state, for all of them but Wadkins, it was their first time competing in a Group 1 solo.

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About the Contributor

Maxwell Schroader, Staff Reporter

Maxwell Schroader is a junior in Panther Press and many other extracurricular activities. This is his first year in Panther Press, and he is greatly enjoying writing stories and taking photos. Maxwell joined Panther Press because many of his friends were in it and he liked the idea of keeping the school informed about important issues. In his free time outside of school, he enjoys playing board games and video games with friends. Within his life, he would like to contribute something to society, likely through research as a materials scientist and by becoming involved with local politics.