SV music students earn top honors at All-State level of PMEA

This month, 13 Seneca Valley musicians advanced all the way to the state level of PMEA and attended the annual PMEA All-State conference and festival. In the performing arts world, this is the equivalent of making it to the state championship. The event was held at the Kalahari Resort and Convention Center in Pocono Manor, PA.

The All-State Orchestra was conducted by Mr. Michael Hall, music director of the Kennett Symphony and Prince George Symphony Orchestra in British Columbia, Canada. Students rehearsed with Mr. Laird over the course of two days which culminated in a performance on Friday, April 11. All State Orchestra participants ncluded Elizabeth Browne, Heath Lyon, Isabella Muthler and Jake Pieszak.

The All-State Wind Ensemble was conducted by Dr. Tonya Mitchell-Spradlin, director of wind band studies and assistant professor of music at Penn State University. The Wind Ensemble performed a concert on Saturday, April 12 with participants Camden Armstrong and Mackenzie Tunstall.

The All-State Jazz Ensemble was conducted by Gary Smulyan, critically acclaimed baritone saxophonist in the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra from New York City. Their performance was on Friday, April 11 and included participant John Rieger.

The All-State Choir was conducted by Rollo Dilworth, vice dean and professor of choral music education at Temple University. The Choir performed on Saturday, April 12. Participants included Ayla Alexander, Addison Grassa, Isaac Hixon, Madelynn Karns, Madeleine Tomo and Madelyn Tresky.