The down-county New York State School Music Association Festival was held May 3 and 4 at Pelham Middle School and Pelham Memorial High School.

More than 1,500 student musicians and their teachers from various schools in the county came to the schools to participate in this evaluation festival. Each year, a different school is chosen to host.

The New York State School Music Association, or NYSSMA, is the group for music educators in the state. Students from lower Westchester County were invited to participate in the NYSSMA festival, where they performed in front of a judge and received feedback. Students who did exceptionally well get the opportunity to participate in highly competitive ensembles on a county and state level to play with others of the same caliber.

“NYSSMA has always been an amazing experience for me,” said Elsie Scerbo, a sophomore from Mamaroneck High School. “I’ve learned so much about music just by the preparation, and it is always a positive event with tons of helpful feedback.”

The event was arranged by PMHS teacher Andrew Van Bochove, the band director at both Pelham middle school and high school. Students assisted with setting up, cleaning up and welcoming guests.

“The best part about hosting NYSSMA was having the opportunity to represent our school’s music program to all of our participating districts,” said Van Bochove.

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