Baldwin High School Senior Jay Puff reached the highest level a high school musician can achieve by earning a place in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) All-State Festival music ensembles. 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.
“We congratulate the student musicians that have been selected to be part of the 2023 PMEA All-State Festival,” commented PMEA President and music educator in the Octorara Area School District Scott Cullen. “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 of 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.” Baldwin High School Choir Director, Kris Tranter, had this to say about Jay Puff's talent. "Jay, who worked relentlessly on this audition, is one of the best singers I've had in my 25 years. I am very proud of this student's accomplishments.”
The student musicians who qualify will perform at the annual PMEA All-State Festival at the Kalahari Resort in The Poconos, Pennsylvania April 19–22, 2023. Nationally recognized conductors at the convention direct the groups who rehearse for two days and conclude with a performance. Learn more about the event and the guest conductors at: https://www.pmea.net/pmeaall-stateinformation/About PMEA.
The Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (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.
