by Morgan Radwick, staff writer

After five months of anticipating the results of the Adjudication Festival, the Chamber Singers were declared an advanced level three choir.

On May 10, the Chamber Singers participated in the festival at Westminster College, now known as the Music Performance Assessments (MPA). The songs they performed were “Sing me to Heaven,” “Take Me Home” arranged by Pentatonix, and “Adoramus te.”

The MPA is hosted by the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA). PMEA is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the musical development of students in Pennsylvania.

Of 12 schools competing, Saegertown was the only school from District 2 to participate. Other ensembles that competed were Wilmington chorus, Mercer chamber choir, and Hickory chamber singers. The reason for competing is simple. “I wanted the kids to have the experience of being critiqued,” said Mrs. Susan James.

Being an advanced level three choir places high recognition on the Saegertown Chamber Singers. The scale goes from one to five and can be proficient or advanced. “If students scored proficient, it’s good to see what they can grow on,” Mrs. James said, referring to the scoring system.

Overall, the students had a great time competing at the festival. “I hope we go to the festival again this year. I really enjoyed the experience and would love to do it again,” said Dustin Steiger, member of the Chamber Singers. For more information about the festival, visit the PMEA web site.