KASTA

Middle-Level

Honor Orchestra

The KASTA Middle-Level Honor Orchestra is an annual orchestral event for 7th and 8th grade string players. The event is held in Hutchinson, Kansas.

The SMLO is not an "Honor Orchestra" in the purest sense of the word, but is intended as a "mountain top experience" for fine middle school string players, who can, in turn, return to their schools and inspire their fellow students.

Registration for 2025 is open !

2025 Audition Form

Middle-Level Honor Orchestra 2026 Information

Date
Saturday, April 18, 2026

Place
Hutchinson High School PAC / Auditorium located at 810 E. 13th St.

Schedule
8:00-8:30 AM, Registration
8:30-10:00 AM, Rehearsal #1
10:00-10:15 AM, Break
10:15-11:30 AM, Rehearsal #2
11:30 AM-1:00 PM, Lunch
1:00-2:20 PM, Rehearsal #3
3:00 PM, Concert

There will be approximately 84 players in the orchestra: 22 first violins, 22 second violins, 16 violas, 14 cellos, and 10 basses.
Selection is based on the teacher recommendation and the review of the "paper audition" forms by the player selection committee. Participation is reserved for 7th and 8th graders.

2026 Clinician
Creston Herron, Director of Orchestral Activities, University of Kansas

String Orchestra Selections

Full Orchestra Selection

Link to bowings will be provided via link by March.

Past clinicians and repertoire