Tea Area students participate in All-State Chorus and Orchestra

Tea Area High School was well represented at the 2026 South Dakota All-State Chorus and Orchestra Concert, held Saturday, Oct. 31, at The Monument in Rapid City. The annual event featured talented high school musicians from across South Dakota.

Representing Tea Area in the All-State Chorus were Ty Olson, Eliam Bullis, Riley Clark, Sam Bullis, Ensel McGraw, Jacob Birger, Ava Waldner, Avianna Steen, Hannah Broughton, Vera Anderson, Grace VandenHoek and Daphne Decker.

Senior Avianna Steen was also recognized for being a four-year participant in the South Dakota All-State Chorus.

Tea Area was represented in the All-State Orchestra by senior Claire Hyronimus on French horn and junior Beau Wranek on trombone.

Selected as alternates for the All-State Chorus were Kenley Johnson, Haley Knodel, Ben Will and Beau Wranek.

In addition to the students’ musical accomplishments, Tea Area High School received a High School Participation Award from the South Dakota Music Education Association (SDMEA). The award recognized the school for having 47% of its high school student body enrolled in and participating in music ensembles (pictured above, top). 

In a Facebook post, the Tea Area School District expressed pride in being among the schools recognized statewide for their commitment to music education.

The district also recognized music directors Stephanie Wranek and Janice Gilbert for their dedication and passion in providing students with opportunities to participate and perform.

The district noted that the students participation helps make Tea Area’s music program special and strengthens the music tradition at the school.