The musical talents of six Elizabethtown Area High School (EAHS) orchestra students were showcased at the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) District Orchestra Festival held January 10-11, 2025, at Manheim Township High School.

The EAHS participants included flutist Hayden Simione, violist Jake Dunn, violinists Sarah Heinz and Leah MacKay, string bassist Grayson Marz, and bassoonist Marley Stauffer. These accomplished student musicians earned their places in the festival through a highly competitive audition process, highlighting their dedication and exceptional skill.

The festival orchestra comprised 135 outstanding student musicians from an eight-county area, including Adams, Dauphin, Cumberland, Franklin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry, and York Counties. Under the direction of guest conductor Dr. Evan Harger from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the ensemble performed an impressive program featuring works by Vaughan Williams, Dukas, Borodin, and Japanese composer Reiko Nomura.

Participation in the PMEA District Orchestra Festival not only showcases the exceptional talent within EAHS but also provides invaluable opportunities for students to grow as musicians by performing alongside peers and working with a renowned conductor.

PMEA is a statewide nonprofit organization that promotes and supports quality music education programs in schools and communities. Its mission is to advance comprehensive and innovative music education for all students through high-quality teaching, rigorous learning, and meaningful music engagement.

Rich Winey is the orchestra director for the Elizabethtown Area School District.