“Of the approximately 100,000 students participating in the regional University Interscholastic League (UIL) music contests and the thousands of musicians who performed at Texas State Solo-Ensemble Contest (TSSEC), only 2-3% of the solo performances earned the distinguished honor of being recognized as an Outstanding Performer,” stated Dr. Bradley Kent, UIL State Director of Music. “On behalf of the University Interscholastic League please allow me to congratulate Kailee Bessent for being selected as an Outstanding Performer at the 2024 TSSEC. This achievement is truly a mark of musical excellence!” In February 2024, Brownwood High School choir students competed at a regional Solo and Ensemble Contest. Earning top marks at that event allowed students to move forward and compete at the State level in May 2024. Students from around the state of Texas competed for honors.

“Solos have different difficulty levels on our UIL Prescribed Music list,” said Jennifer Reeves, BHS Choir Director. “‘Class One’ solos are the most difficult solos. My top students who have been in choir for a while, work hard on their own, and listen to our guidance are the students to whom I choose to give a ‘Class One’ solo. Students who earn a ‘Division One’ on their ‘Class One’ solo in February move on to State Contest in May. We had many students move on to sing their solo at State. Kailee earned a ‘Division One’ on her solo, which is a difficult task to do.” Bessent has been a choir student since the sixth grade and is currently a junior at Brownwood High School. “I prepared for the State contest by listening to my song over and over again, but Mrs. Wied and Mrs. Reeves really helped me with my dynamics,” Bessent said. Her solo, “Non Posso Disperar” by Giovanni Bononcini translates into the phrase, “I Do Not Dare Despond.” The phrase would serve any student working to achieve high marks on a challenging musical piece.

“Mrs. Kristi Wied (BMS Choir Director) and I pull out students and work with them individually or in groups to help teach them their music and then move on to working on their musicality,” Reeves said. “Kailee also took time on her own to go over her solo, working hard on her Italian diction and dynamics to help enhance her piece. We’re so proud of Kailee’s hard work and for this accolade and accomplishment.” Students aiming to earn high marks on solo and ensemble pieces spend time in class and on their own to memorize the music, make it musically interesting, and commit to excellence. “Awards of this nature do not come easily and reflect the efforts of many individuals,” Kent said. “[Bessent’s] parents, school, and teachers are to be commended for their contribution to [her] success. At the same time remember that … talent, dedication, and hard work make this accomplishment a reality.”

[Article by Sara Musgrove]