News Detail

WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. (APRIL 9, 2025) — Three Williamsport Area High School (WAHS) student musicians are set to depart for one of the most prestigious music events in the state: the 2025 Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) All-State Festival.

William Ciabattari (violin), Robert Leiter (trumpet), and Colton Taylor (string bass) will travel to the Kalahari Resort and Convention Center in the Poconos today to join Pennsylvania’s top high school performers for the four-day event, held April 9-12.

Their selections place them among the best in the state, having earned spots in the following All-State ensembles:

• Ciabattari: All-State Orchestra
• Leiter:  All-State Concert Band
• Taylor: All-State Concert Band

Each year, thousands of student musicians across Pennsylvania audition through a competitive, multi-tiered process. After advancing through district and regional levels, only the top performers are selected for All-State. These elite ensembles include Choir, Orchestra, Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, and Contemporary A Cappella.

During the festival, students will rehearse under the guidance of nationally recognized conductors and conclude the event with a public performance showcasing their talents.

At the event, WAHS orchestra teacher Matthew Radspinner also will officially be recognized for his lasting contributions to the field of music education by accepting the 2025 PMEA Citation of Excellence in Teaching Award for District 8.

The Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and supporting quality music education, learning, and performance. More information about the All-State Festival is available at www.pmea.net/allstate.

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