News Detail

WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. (APRIL 18, 2023) — Six Williamsport Area High School students will perform in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) All-State Festival music ensembles April 19-22 at the Kalahari Resort in The Poconos.

Olivia Ciabattari (Alto I), Lydia Hall (Soprano I), Noah McKenzie (Trombone), Samuel Radulski (Double Bass), Alanna Ramos (Soprano II) and Sydney Smith (Alto I) will represent WAHS at the festival, placing them at the highest level a high school musician can achieve in the state.

Each year, thousands of high school musicians across the state audition in their geographic area. Individually, students perform for a panel of judges. Student musicians who rank the highest advance to compete against student musicians from other parts of PMEA regions. The highest-ranking student musicians at the PMEA Region level qualify to perform in one of six Pennsylvania All-State music ensembles.

“I am thrilled to share that our students’ hard work and exceptional musical talents have earned them the honor of a seat in the prestigious PMEA All-State Ensemble,” said Principal Dr. Justin Ross. “This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to their dedication, perseverance and unwavering commitment to their craft. PMEA has a long-standing legacy of advocating for music education and providing outstanding opportunities for students to showcase their talents. We are immensely proud of our students for representing our school with distinction and showcasing their extraordinary abilities on a state-wide stage. Congratulations to our students for this well-deserved recognition.”

Nationally recognized conductors at the convention direct the groups who rehearse for two days and conclude with a performance.

“We congratulate the student musicians that have been selected to be part of the 2023 PMEA All-State Festival,” said Scott Cullen, PMEA president and music educator in the Octorara Area School District. “Coming together for a unique performance experience like the PMEA All-State Festival is a top honor for student musicians in Pennsylvania. They represent all the amazing music programs from across the commonwealth. What these students can do as an ensemble in a few short days and hours together is truly remarkable.”

PMEA is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the musical development of all Pennsylvanians. The present membership evolved from a small group of band directors dating from 1933. Today, the organization includes those engaged in music instruction at all levels, from preschool through college and university, as well as those in the music industry, merchandising and publishing. The organization promotes and supports quality music education, learning and performance as well as promoting and supporting music education in schools and communities.

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Pictured at back from left: Lydia Hall, Samuel Radulski and Noah McKenzie. At front from left: Olivia Ciabattari and Sydney Smith. Not pictured: Alanna Ramos.