Senior Gretchen Berendt, juniors Nicholas Palombo, Evan Linkimer, Bailey O’Leary, and Cindy Liu, and sophomores Emma Sewall, Autumn Westmoreland, and Zane Kelly from Beaver Area High School who were recommended by Mrs. Kristina Graham, the orchestra director at Beaver Area High School, performed in the PMEA District Orchestra Festival in Erie January 12.

O’Leary played the oboe in the festival.

“Overall, I thought the district orchestra festival was great! The conductor [Mr. Moser] was really nice, and although the music was very challenging it was fun to learn to play,” said O’Leary.

The pieces played at the festival were Overture to Nabucco, Symphonie Fantastique, and Star Wars Medley.

The guest conductor at this year’s festival was Jonathan Moser from Mercyhurst University

Linkimer played the French horn in the festival.

“The experience was really great; I got the chance to meet other kids from many different school around the area,” said Linkimer.

Sewall played the viola in the festival.

“My overall experience was challenging but very fun. I got to see some friends that I haven’t gotten to see in a very long time. I can say that I’ve gotten a very unique and valuable experience out of the festival,” explained Sewall.

“I’m proud of all of the students who represented Beaver Area High School at this year’s festival, and I encourage more students to participate in these festivals in the future,” said Beaver Area High School orchestra director Mrs. Graham.

Congratulations to all students who participated in this year’s festival, and congratulations to Gretchen, Evan, Nicholas, Bailey, Autumn, and Emma who are all advancing to Western Region Orchestra in February!