Middle school ensembles earn top ratings

RGMS Adjudication

On May 30, the Ryan Gloyer Middle School (RGMS) Instrumental Music Department hosted an adjudication event for all sixth and seventh grade instrumental students in the district. This Music Performance Assessment (MPA) is sponsored by the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) with the intent of providing enriching feedback to students based on their performance. Each ensemble prepares two pieces that are performed for a panel of judges who assess the group’s performance and provide input based on statewide criteria. Feedback helps students have an idea where they rank, in terms of performance, with similar schools. This year’s panel of adjudicators were educators from Mt. Lebanon School District, Peters Township School District, Indiana University and Seton Hill University.

In addition to performing chosen pieces, the seventh grade band and orchestra participated in a sight-reading component where they were evaluated on their ability to play through a piece of music for the first time with as few mistakes as possible. Sixth grade ensembles had the opportunity to work with adjudicators in a masterclass where they were given live feedback of their performance in place of participating in the sight-reading.

All the instrumental ensembles participating in the MPA from Haine Middle School, Ehrman Crest Middle School and RGMS received a Superior Rating, which is the highest possible rating. Haine Middle School instrumental directors are Ms. Kelly Levere (Band) and Ms. Marlena Hasara (Orchestra). Ehrman Crest directors are Ms. Tracy Glass (Band) and Ms. Mandy Lesney (Orchestra). RGMS instrumental directors and event hosts are Ms. Sarah Miller (Orchestra), Mr. Brian Croach (Band) and Ms. Sara Snyder (Band).