Port Washington, NY (May 2024)- The talented music students of the Port Washington Union Free School District showcased their musical skill at the recent New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) Major Organization Festival, held in late May. This state festival highlights the achievements of large ensembles from throughout the New York. The district is proud to announce remarkable achievements across multiple ensembles, demonstrating the dedication and ability of its young musicians.
Under the guidance of their music teachers, Port Washington student-musicians delivered outstanding performances in front of NYSSMA certified adjudicators. The music performed ascends in difficulty from Level 1 to Level 6, with Level 6 equivalent to collegiate and professional level repertoire. The District was proud to equal its largest representation ever, with eleven performing ensembles from Port Washington receiving very strong ratings, as indicated below.
Paul D. Schreiber High School Symphony Orchestra
Level 6
Rating: Gold
Paul D. Schreiber High School Wind Ensemble
Level 6
Rating: Gold
Paul D. Schreiber High School Mixed Choir
Level: 5
Rating: Gold
Paul D. Schreiber High School Symphonic Band
Level: 4
Rating: Silver
Paul D. Schreiber High School String Orchestra
Level: 4
Rating: Silver
Paul D. Schreiber High School Freshman Band
Level: 4
Rating: Silver
Paul D. Schreiber High School Freshman Choir
Level: 3
Rating: Silver
Paul D. Schreiber High School Freshman Orchestra
Level: 3
Rating: Gold with Distinction
Carrie Palmer Weber Middle School 8th Grade Band
Level: 3
Rating: Silver
Carrie Palmer Weber Middle School 7th Grade Band
Level: 2
Rating: Silver
Carrie Palmer Weber Middle School Jazz Band
Level: 2
Rating: Gold
“I am so proud of the students and their teachers for the dedication and hard work they showed in preparing for the NYSSMA Major Organization festival. This process allows students the opportunity to display their efforts and receive feedback from trained adjudicators in an authentic setting. Congratulations to all involved!” said Kevin Scully, Director of Creative Arts for Port Washington School District.
Port Washington School District firmly believes in the importance of music education in students' lives. These NYSSMA ensemble results reflect the district's commitment to providing a comprehensive and enriching educational experience that fosters creativity, discipline, and personal growth.