Mother Nature reigns supreme.

Senior Nicholas Palombo and sophomore Shannon Witkouski participated in the PMEA District Jazz festival, which was supposed to be held February 7 and 8; however, due to weather, it was shortened to only February 8.

The festival was held at Slippery Rock University, and 13 different schools participated. Three total combined bands performed at the festival. Palombo performed in Band 2, and Witkouski performed in Band 3.

“I had so much fun playing jazz music with a group of students who were enthusiastic about it. PMEA jazz has always been my favorite festival, so it’s sad this was my last one,” said Palombo.

Band 2 was directed by Paul Leskowicz, who is the Director of Bands at the State College Area High School in State College, PA. The ensemble performed the pieces Surviving Soho, I’m Getting Sentimental Over You, Such Sweet Thunder, Seize the Noche, and Queen Bee.

Band 3 was directed by Timothy Powell, a graduate from Penn State University, and an established musician in the Baltimore area. The ensemble performed UMMG, Follow the Leader, Bloom, Beneath the Underdog, and Pocono Git Down.

“Despite the reduced rehearsal schedule, I feel that all of the bands did a fantastic job. I think both Shannon and Nicholas had a very nice experience,” explained Beaver Area High School Band Director Mr. J.P. Scanga.

Congratulations to Witkouski and Palombo on an excellent festival and a fantastic job of representing Beaver Area High School.