(February 28, 2023) Senior Tenor 2 Vaughn McCain recently earned a place in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) All-State Festival music ensembles after a successful audition at the PMEA Regional competition on February 16.

McCain sang “Sure on this Shining Night” by Morten Laurisden for his audition against 20 students in his section for one of six spots. Not only did he do well enough to secure one of the six spots, but he had the highest score and placed first in his section. At the all-state festival at the Kalahari Resort in the Poconos April 19-22, McCain will be singing with the best singers from across Pennsylvania.

Each year, thousands of high school musicians across the state audition in their geographic area. Individually, students perform for a panel of judges. Student musicians who rank the highest advance to compete against student musicians from other parts of PMEA Regions. The highest-ranking student musicians at the PMEA Region level qualify to perform in one of six Pennsylvania All-State music ensembles.

“We congratulate the student musicians that have been selected to be part of the 2023 PMEA All-State Festival,” commented PMEA President and music educator in the Octorara Area School District Scott Cullen. “Coming together for a unique performance experience like the PMEA All-State Festival is a top honor for student musicians in Pennsylvania. They represent all of the amazing music programs from across the commonwealth. What these students can do as an ensemble in a few short days and hours together is truly remarkable.”