POMPERAUG HIGH SCHOOL MUSIC STUDENTS PERFORM IN 2008 ALL-STATE MUSIC FESTIVAL

   Thirteen students from Pomperaug High School were awarded spots in Connecticut’s 2008 All-State Music Festival and performed at the concerts April 3-5, 2008. The All-State Festival features the top 400 music students in Connecticut. Students work with renowned conductors and perform some of the best literature written for their ensembles.

  The students arrived at the Festival on April 3, 2008 and performed the All-State Concert on April 5^th at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford. The Band was led by Daniel D’Addio, Central Connecticut State University and Dr. Glenn Block, Illinois State University, conducted the Orchestra. The Jazz Band was led by Steve Owen, University of Oregon.  The chorus was led by Dr. Scott Buchanan, Indiana State University.

  The All-State Festival is sponsored by the Connecticut Music Educators Association (CMEA) whose mission is to provide programs and activities for professional educators, students, and future music educators striving to enhance the quality of music education for all children.  The festival participants participated in rehearsals all three days and performed a public concert on Saturday afternoon.

  The students from Pomperaug High School who participated were Edward C., Matt M., Pablo A., Stephen B. Jillian K., Lisa S., Lexy W., Regina A., Samantha M., Alyssa B., Natalie K., Deanna B., and James T.. These young men and women study under PHS music teachers Mr. Christian Banach, Mr. Robert D’Angelo, and Mrs. Linda Hughes.

  The four regions of the state hold auditions for the All-State Festival in November. Pomperaug High School is part of the Southern Region. Based on their audition score, students are selected to participate in their region's festival in January. The Connecticut Music Educators Association then determines a range of scores that are eligible to audition for the All-State Festival. This audition takes place in February.

  To quote the PHS Music Department, “It’s quite an honor to be part of this festival and is a real showcase for the talent of these musicians. We value the process more than the festival itself. Students grow as musicians by participating in this series of auditions.”

  Since these auditions are not mandatory for all students, the number of participants from each school varies from year to year.