Several members of the Vashon High School band recently qualified to compete at the State Solo and Ensemble Contest, which will take place next month at Central Washington University in Ellensburg.

Senior Erica Walker placed first on oboe at the recent district solo competition to qualify for state, as did freshman Graham Hazzard on snare drum.

Sophomore Ryan Krug on tenor saxophone and Peyton Levin on mallets both took second at the district competition and are alternates for state.

The high school’s 10-member percussion ensemble also won districts and will compete at state.

Ken Quehrn, band director at the high school, said qualifying for state was a huge accomplishment for the young musicians.

“Going to the state solo and ensemble competition is like being in the semifinals of the basketball tournament,” he said. “It’s the highest recognition you can get as a soloist in the state of Washington.”