Salem-Keizer student musicians gave the community a lot to celebrate at the 2026 OSAA/OnPoint Community Credit Union State Championships. Across band, string orchestra, and full orchestra competitions, local high schools delivered standout performances and brought several state honors back to the Mid-Willamette Valley.
From a historic first-time win for McNary High School to strong podium finishes from South Salem, West Salem, McKay, and Sprague, this year’s championships highlighted the dedication, talent, and hard work happening inside Salem-Keizer music programs.
McNary’s Historic Breakthrough in the 6A Band Division
For the first time in the school’s 60-year history, McNary High School’s Wind Ensemble captured the 6A State Band Championship.
Led by director Elizabeth Hering, the Celts executed a demanding repertoire to earn near-perfect marks. McNary clinched the historic championship with a total of 341.00 points, winning by a razor-thin two-point margin. The win led a massive showing for Salem-Keizer in the division, with West Salem High School tying for second place at 339.00 points and Sprague High School finishing fifth with 325.00 points to put three SKPS schools in the top five.
In the 5A Band Championship, McKay High School added to the district’s trophy haul under director Scott Avzaradel, tying for second place with 294.00 points.
South Salem Captures Third Consecutive String Championship
The district’s dominance extended into the string divisions, where South Salem High School won its third consecutive OSAA State String Orchestra Championship. Under the direction of Damian Berdakin, the South Salem ensemble delivered a mesmerizing performance to earn a total score of 330.00 points, safely securing the top spot on the podium.
SKSD completely locked down the state podium in this category:
- First Place: South Salem High School (330.00 points)
- Second Place: West Salem High School (307.00 points)
- Third Place (Tie): McKay High School (295.00 points)
West Salem Claims the Full Orchestra Crown
The golden run continued into the Full Orchestra division, where Salem-Keizer ensembles claimed a clean sweep of the top three positions.
West Salem High School, under the co-direction of Brigid Mayer and Todd Zimbelman, took home the 2026 State Championship with a total score of 328.00 points. They narrowly edged out South Salem, who finished in second place with 325.00 points. McNary High School rounded out the exceptional local showing by taking the third-place trophy with 304.00 points.
2026 OSAA State Championship Standings at a Glance
| Category | Champion | 2nd Place | 3rd Place |
| 6A Concert Band | McNary (341.00) | West Salem (339.00 – Tied with Mountainside) | Sherwood (335.00) |
| String Orchestra | South Salem (330.00) | West Salem (307.00) | McKay (295.00 – Tied with Lakeridge) |
| Full Orchestra | West Salem (328.00) | South Salem (325.00) | McNary (304.00) |
The 2026 OSAA State Championships were a beautiful reminder of what can happen when talented students, dedicated teachers, supportive families, and strong school communities come together. These Salem-Keizer musicians spent countless hours practicing, preparing, and performing with excellence.
Congratulations to all of the local students, directors, and schools who helped make this such a memorable year for music in Salem and Keizer! The Mid-Willamette Valley has plenty to be proud of.
Links for further reading:
- McNary band wins state championship – Keizertimes
- 2026 OSAA / OnPoint Community Credit Union Orchestra State Championships – Oregon School Activities Association