Massapequa Takes Top NYSSMA Honors

Five musical ensembles from the Massapequa School District were awarded high ratings for musical proficiency at the 2015 New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) Major Organization Festival. Out of a rating system that included the following categories: Certificate of Participation, Bronze, Silver, Gold and Gold with Distinction, Massapequa took home three Silver ratings, one Gold and one Gold with Distinction after the ensembles were evaluated by a panel of two judges that provided constructive comments and assessments based on specific performance criteria.

The highest honor, Gold with Distinction, was awarded to the Massapequa High School Wind Ensemble, which performed the highest level of music, level 6, under the direction of Mark Stempel. A Gold rating was given to Lockhart Elementary School’s Band after its level 1 performance led by Kristin Hodulick.

Silver ratings went to Berner Middle School’s Seventh-Grade Band, under Ronald Basirico’s direction and Eighth-Grade Band, led by Dennis McLoughlin, which performed at levels 2 and 3, respectively. The third Silver rating was given to Massapequa High School’s Symphonic Band, which performed a level 4 arrangement under the direction of Andrew Dwork.

“These ratings underscore the quality of our music program and staff, and speak to the commitment and dedication of our students who have worked so hard throughout the year to improve their skills,” said Dr. David Gaines, the district’s curriculum associate for music. “We are proud of all of our students and staff who have represented our district well in this NYSSMA festival.”

Courtesy Massapequa Schools