From Dream to Podium

Kayla Selan is a graduate of Ashland High School and currently a junior at Cleveland State University. Kayla plays trombone and euphonium and is studying conducting. In 2022, Kayla attended a performance by Rodney Marsalis, after which she told her high school band director Marty Kral, "I want to be a conductor." Mr. Kral reached out to the Ashland Symphony Orchestra's Music Director and Conductor Michael Repper to see if he could help. Mr. Repper is a firm believer in encouraging students to follow their passion, and he agreed to help Kayla in any way he could including giving her conducting lessions. At just 17 years old, Kayla made her conducting debut when she guest conducted the Ashland Symphony Orchestra!
Now in college, Kayla has the opportunity to conduct several student ensembles. She spends time studying music scores and observing conductors in rehearsals. She takes notes, consults with the conductors, and gives musicians rehearsal notes. She has made several guest appearances with the Ashland Symphony Orchestra.
In May 2026, Kayla was a guest on the Kelly Clarkson show. Kayla will share her journey from dream to reality, what is was like to meet her idol, and how community support is helping her reach her goal.