Dr. Jennifer Rukstad and Associate Executive Director, James Melton, join together on this episode of the MSHSAA All-Access Podcast to talk about the 2026 State Music Festival for solo and small ensembles. This massive evaluative event occurs annually on the University of Missouri campus in Columbia, MO. Melton reviews the extensive year-long process of planning and preparation behind this 3-day event culminating in close to 7,000 students performing for their chance at Gold! Listen as they review the final results along with notes about a special moment shared during each of the three days.