Franklin Brown, a sophomore at Edwardsburg High School, has been named a Michigan Youth Arts Distinguished Scholar and invited to participate in the 52nd annual Michigan Youth Arts Festival, May 8-10, in Kalamazoo.

Invitations to be a member of the MYAF Honors Band are offered to top-scoring individuals in the proficiency exam portion of the State Solo and Ensemble Festival.

Franklin’s exam, which earned 99 out of 100 points, included a performance of Alexandre Guilmant’s “Morceau Symphonique” on the trombone.

In addition to the Edwardsburg High School Band, Franklin plays in the Niles Community Orchestra and in his church’s brass ensemble. He studies privately with Dr. Steve Wolfinbarger of Western Michigan University.

“Michigan Youth Arts is honored to host this annual event because it not only encourages artistic excellence at the high school level, but also creates an awareness of the importance of art in the lives of Michigan residents,” said Marianne Dorais, Executive Director. “The extraordinary talent of our Distinguished Scholars, whether as vocalists, actors, dancers, musicians or artists, is something of which the entire state can be proud.”

2014 marks the 52nd anniversary of this three-day event, featuring workshops and master classes for the students, alongside more than 20 student performances and exhibitions that are open to the public.