More than 150 musicians from 55 schools in northeastern Pennsylvania and central Pennsylvania will participate in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) Region IV Band Festival from March 11 to 13, 2026. The festival will take place at MMI Preparatory School and Hazleton Area High School, showcasing the talent and dedication of young musicians from the region.
Guest conductor Dr. Peter Loel Boonshaft, a highly regarded figure in the music education community, will lead the festival. Dr. Boonshaft has conducted prestigious ensembles across the United States and internationally, including the NAfME national honor bands and the U.S. Marine Corps ensembles. He is the recipient of the George M. Parks Award for Leadership in Music Education and currently serves as the Director of Education for Jupiter Band Instruments. His expertise and experience will provide a valuable learning opportunity for the participating musicians.
“Music brings connection and meaning to a school community, and festivals like this give students the opportunity to discover confidence, belonging, and artistic growth,” stated Theresa Long, Head of School at MMI Prep. She emphasized the importance of collaboration with the Hazleton Area School District, noting their mutual commitment to music education and the impact of such experiences on students beyond the stage.
The first two days of the festival will focus on auditions and rehearsals at MMI. On March 11, from 17:00 to 21:00, auditions will determine which of the 156 students will advance to the PMEA All-State Band Festival, scheduled for April 23 to 25 at the Kalahari Resort and Convention Center. Following the auditions, rehearsals will commence on March 12 at MMI Prep.
The festival will move to Hazleton Area High School on March 13, with daytime rehearsals beginning at 09:00. The event will conclude with a public concert at 18:30 in the High School Auditorium. Admission to the concert is priced at $6, providing an opportunity for the community to support the young musicians.
The festival is hosted by Jennifer Gerhard, Music Director at MMI and PMEA Advocacy Chair for District 9, alongside Helen Rettger, Band Director at Hazleton Area High School. Dr. Brian Uplinger, Superintendent of Hazleton Area School District, expressed his enthusiasm for the event: “Music education is a vital part of a well-rounded education, fostering creativity, discipline, and collaboration. We are honored to partner with MMI Preparatory School to host the PMEA Region IV Band Festival and to celebrate the dedication and talent of young musicians from across our region.”
The PMEA is a nonprofit organization committed to promoting musical development throughout Pennsylvania. Its annual band, chorus, and orchestra festivals at various levels aim to further music education and enhance music programs in schools. The Region IV Band Festival is a testament to this mission, providing students with an invaluable platform to showcase their skills and passion for music.
