The instrumental talents of eight Elizabethtown Area High School (EAHS) students were showcased at the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) District 7 Band Festival, held at Donegal High School in February.

Selected through a highly competitive audition process, the EAHS students represented a wide range of instruments:

• Bassoon: Morgan Newpower
• Clarinet: Olivia Black
• Flute: Elise Fuddy , Hayden Simione, Elaina Smith 
• French Horn: Margo Sirinides
• Percussion: Carson Hoffmaster
• Trumpet: Nick Kreider

Students prepared music specific to their instrument and auditioned alongside peers from Lancaster, York, Dauphin, and Lebanon counties. The top performers from each instrument group were selected to participate in the festival ensemble.

The District 7 Band Festival brought together 124 of the region’s most accomplished student musicians. Under the direction of Dr. Adam Gumble, Director of Athletic Bands at West Chester University of Pennsylvania, the ensemble rehearsed and performed a program designed to challenge and refine each student’s technical proficiency, musicianship, and ensemble performance skills.

Participation in the PMEA District 7 Band Festival is a significant achievement, reflecting the dedication, preparation, and talent of EAHS students. The experience provides valuable musical growth opportunities while allowing students to collaborate with high-achieving peers from across the region under the leadership of a distinguished conductor.

“These students worked very hard and auditioned to be part of this ensemble,” said Ms. Kristin Novak, EAHS band director. “Their dedication, commitment, and musicianship should be commended and celebrated. EAHS is very fortunate to have such outstanding students to represent our district.”

PMEA is a statewide nonprofit organization committed to advancing high-quality music education in schools and communities. Its mission focuses on promoting comprehensive and innovative music instruction through excellent teaching, rigorous learning, and meaningful musical engagement for all students.