Each year, thousands of music educators gather for the annual TMEA Convention, recognized as one of the largest music education conferences in the nation. Only a select number of school ensembles across Texas earn the distinction of performing, making the invitation an extraordinary honor for Heritage Middle School and Frenship ISD.

 

Selection as an Invited Choir is based on a rigorous application and blind adjudication process. Ensembles must submit multiple live concert recordings representing sustained excellence across many academic years, including advanced and a cappella repertoire. Applications also require administrative approval, detailed program proposals, and extensive documentation. Recordings are evaluated anonymously by a panel of expert adjudicators from across the state, with only the highest-rated ensembles chosen to perform.

 

Heritage Middle School’s choir, under the direction of Heritage Choir Director Morgan Kirby, delivered a polished and expressive performance at the 2026 convention, representing their school, district, and community on one of the most respected stages in music education.

 

"The honor to be selected was a dream come true for me," Kirby said. "The students weren’t sure at first what it meant. After explaining and research, we were ready to rise to the occasion. We were one of 6 middle school choirs in the state out of thousands of applicants who were invited to perform."

 

“This invitation represents years of dedication, growth, and a relentless pursuit of excellence,” said Dr. Ryan Smith, Frenship ISD Fine Arts Director. “To be selected to perform at TMEA is one of the highest honors a Texas school choir can receive. The level of musicianship required even to be considered is extraordinary, and watching our students stand on that stage was a powerful testament to their discipline, artistry, and heart."

 

Heritage was just one of only five middle school choirs from across the state to receive this honor. Invited ensembles are ineligible to apply again for three years following a performance, underscoring both the exclusivity and prestige of the recognition.

 

"Heritage Middle School’s achievement highlights the strength of music education in Frenship ISD and the continued commitment to artistic excellence at every level," Dr. Smith said. "We could not be more proud of the professionalism, grace, and passion that Mrs. Kirby and the Heritage Middle School Choir demonstrated while representing our district and community.”