SV superior choirs

Choir MPA

For the 28th consecutive year, the Seneca Valley Choral Department hosted a Music Performance Assessment (MPA) event in March, in honor of Music In Our Schools month. Approximately 800 Seneca Valley Chorus students in grades 6-12 participated in this Pennsylvania Music Education Association (PMEA) event.

The goal of an MPA adjudication is to provide opportunities for students within ensembles to receive a clinic with a collegiate judge, scores, written and recorded comments, and a rating that reflects performance levels. It provides a “snapshot” evaluation of the implementation of music curriculum and provides meaningful feedback to the directors and students via adjudicator verbal and written comments.

The PMEA assessment forms correlate to state standards, testing terminology and traditional grading. Ensembles can receive comments only, or ratings of Superior, Excellent, Good, Fair or Poor. Attending an adjudication is valuable, however, hosting one is an even greater indicator of the dedication our SV Choral department has. All SV choirs, grades 6-12, performed.

The adjudicators for the event were Dr. Mark Boyle from Seton Hill University, Dr. Craig Denison from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and Dr. Ryan Keeling from Westminster College.

“Seeing all of the wonderful ensembles at Seneca Valley is inspiring,” said Dr. Ryan Keeling.

Dr. Mark Boyle continued, “I work with high school choirs around the Pittsburgh area every Friday. This chorus program is far beyond the norm. There is something very special at Seneca Valley!”

The SV Choral directors who participated included Ms. Bobi-Jean Alexander, Ms. Claire Barker, Ms. Chessa Crum, Mr. Kyle Masson and Ms. Elizabeth Schroder. Pastor William Brewer was the accompanist for all groups. The Seneca Valley Choral Boosters provided support as chaperones and as assistants in organizing and implementing the details of the event.

The SV Madrigal Singers, Concert Choir, Treble Choir, Men’s Choir, 9/10 Choral Union, Eighth Grade Choir, Seventh Grade Choir, and Haine and Ehrman Crest Sixth Grade Choirs all received Superior ratings, the highest rating given! The collaboration of district officials, students, parent helpers, teachers and collegiate judges made the day a fantastic educational experience and great success!