The KSO is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 High School Senior Musician Scholarships. Each year, the program recognizes outstanding DeKalb County high school seniors who have participated in instrumental music ensembles and plan to continue their musical involvement in college.
This year’s recipients are:
Noah Bradac
Percussion | Sycamore High School
Noah plans to attend Belmont University and major in Commercial Music – Audio Engineering Technology.
“Music has helped me give back to my community, brought me some of my closest friends, and given me an avenue through which I can express myself,” Bradac shared.
Marlie Colness
Violin and Viola | Sycamore High School
Marlie will study Violin Performance at the Cleveland Institute of Music.
“Music has always been my way of expressing my thoughts and emotions without using words. It is my way of processing these emotions, as well as helping myself and my audiences heal through difficult or confusing times,” Colness said.
Carina Swanson
Clarinet | Sandwich High School
Carina will attend Illinois State University to study Music Therapy.
“Music felt like the only place I could truly express myself, and because of the acceptance and emotional support of my community, I found my voice and my passion,” she said.
Jaden Teague-Núñez
Steelpan, Piano, and Percussion | DeKalb High School
Jaden will attend Northern Illinois University to major in Music Performance in Steelpan.
“I strive to further grow the limits of the steelpan and introduce other people to this amazing instrument,” he said.
The KSO is honored to support these talented students as they pursue their educational and musical goals. Through its scholarship program, the KSO remains committed to encouraging the next generation of musicians and strengthening the future of music in our community.
For more information about the KSO’s scholarship program, visit kishorchestra.org/scholarships.