Avonworth Musicians Earn Spots in 2025 PMEA All-State Concert Band

Vanessa Amayo (Grade 12, flute) and Kaleb Amick (Grade 10, horn) represented Avonworth at the PMEA Region I Band Festival 2025, hosted by Ambridge Area High School. Both musicians secured their spots at the festival through a highly competitive audition process last month—and they didn’t stop there.

At the event, Vanessa and Kaleb both excelled in the final round of auditions, earning coveted placements in the 2025 PMEA All-State Concert Band, which will take place in the Poconos from April 9-12. Vanessa placed second overall among flutists, marking her second time earning a place in a PMEA All-State ensemble. Kaleb, competing against a strong field of horn players, placed fourth overall, securing his first state-level achievement.

While at the Region I Festival, Vanessa and Kaleb had the opportunity to perform under the baton of guest conductor Col. (Ret. USMC) Michael J. Colburn. Col. Colburn is one of only five individuals in the past 50 years to serve as the Director of "The President’s Own" United States Marine Band. His distinguished career includes roles as Principal Euphonium for the Marine Band, Director of Bands at Butler University, and Adjunct Professor of Euphonium at the University of Vermont. He currently leads the Me2 Orchestra in Burlington, Vermont.

While all PMEA festivals provide students with outstanding musical mentorship, working with Col. Colburn was an especially rare and valuable experience. His unparalleled expertise and leadership offered students a firsthand glimpse into the highest levels of musical excellence.

Vanessa and Kaleb’s success reflects the strength of Avonworth’s K-12 music program, which continues to produce high-achieving musicians. The PMEA competition circuit is incredibly competitive—as an example, the top four flutists at Region I scored within just five points of each other on a 280-point scale. For a school of Avonworth’s size to consistently send students to the All-State level is a testament to the dedication of our student musicians, their educators, and the community that supports them.

Since 2017, Vanessa and Kaleb join an elite group as the fifth and sixth Avonworth students to reach the PMEA All-State level. Their achievement is a proud moment for our school and a reminder of what’s possible through passion, perseverance, and high-quality music education.

Congratulations, Vanessa and Kaleb—we can’t wait to see you represent Avonworth at PMEA All-States 2025!