The Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) will host the Region IV Band Festival from March 11 to 13, 2026, at MMI Prep and Hazleton Area High School. More than 150 musicians from 55 schools across northeastern Pennsylvania and central Pennsylvania will participate in this highly anticipated event.
Guest conductor Dr. Peter Loel Boonshaft will lead the festival. A renowned figure in music education, Dr. Boonshaft has conducted prestigious ensembles nationwide and internationally. His accolades include guest appearances with the NAfME national and divisional honor bands, among others. He is also the recipient of the George M. Parks Award for Leadership in Music Education and serves as Director of Education for Jupiter Band Instruments.
“Music brings connection and meaning to a school community, and festivals like this give students the opportunity to discover confidence, belonging, and artistic growth,” said Theresa Long, Head of School at MMI Prep. This event exemplifies the collaboration between MMI and the Hazleton Area School District, emphasizing their commitment to enriching music education.
The festival will kick off with auditions on March 11, from 17:00 to 21:00, where students will compete for spots in the PMEA All-State Band Festival scheduled for April 23-25 at the Kalahari Resort and Convention Center. Rehearsals will commence on March 12 at MMI Prep, preparing students for the public concert.
On the final day, March 13, rehearsals will move to Hazleton Area High School, starting at 09:00. The festival will culminate in a public concert at 18:30 in the High School Auditorium, where attendees can enjoy the performances for an admission fee of $6.
The festival is co-hosted by Jennifer Gerhard, MMI Music Director and PMEA Advocacy Chair for District 9, and Helen Rettger, Band Director at Hazleton Area High School. Dr. Brian Uplinger, Superintendent of the Hazleton Area School District, expressed pride in the collaboration, stating, “Music education is a vital part of a well-rounded education, fostering creativity, discipline, and collaboration.”
The PMEA is dedicated to promoting musical development throughout Pennsylvania. Its annual festivals at district, regional, and all-state levels aim to further music education and support the growth of music programs in schools. This festival promises to be an inspiring event for young musicians, celebrating their talent and commitment to the arts.