Seneca Valley students earn prestigious all-state honors at PMEA
PMEA All-State participants
Participation at the all-state level represents the pinnacle of success for student musicians and is widely regarded as the performing arts equivalent of a state championship.
These exceptional students were featured performers in the event held at the Kalahari Resorts and Conventions in Pocono Manor. Students were selected through a rigorous audition process and joined the most accomplished young musicians from across the commonwealth for an intensive, multiday musical experience culminating in public performances.
The All-State Orchestra was conducted by Dr. Paul Shewan, professor of conducting, ensembles and trumpet at Roberts Wesleyan University in Rochester, New York. Students rehearsed extensively under Dr. Shewan over the course of three days, culminating in a concert performance on Saturday, April 25.
Orchestra Participants: Elizabeth Browne – Violin, Benny James – Bass
The All-State Concert Band was led by Dr. Jeffrey D. Gershman, director of bands and chair of the Department of Music at The College of Wooster. The ensemble presented its performance on Saturday, April 25, showcasing repertoire of exceptional technical and musical demands.
Concert Band Participants: Emma Gallie – Clarinet, Gio Salgado – Alto Saxophone, Eli Scanlan – Trombone
The All-State Jazz Ensemble was conducted by Dr. Paul Bratcher, associate chair of piano at the Levine School of Music in Washington, D.C., and director of jazz studies at Georgetown University. The ensemble performed on Friday, April 24, demonstrating advanced improvisational skill, stylistic mastery and ensemble artistry.
Jazz Ensemble Participants: Camden Armstrong – Alto Saxophone, John Rieger – Trumpet
The All-State Choir was directed by Dr. Brian J. Winnie, director of choral studies at Western Illinois University. On Friday, April 24, the choir performed a program that reflected musical excellence, expressive depth and vocal precision.
Choir Participants: Nathan Capizzi – Tenor 2, Aydan Danylo – Alto 1, Jacob Harding – Tenor 2, Autumn Holmes – Alto 2, Shayla Kemp – Soprano 1, Layne Vandenburgh – Tenor 1
The achievement of these students reflects countless hours of preparation, discipline and dedication to their craft. Their success brings distinction to the Seneca Valley Academy of Choice (SVAOC) and stands as a powerful testament to the strength of its music program and the exceptional talent of its students.