The sounds of music were a welcome sign of the spring season as the Port Jefferson School District hosted the New York State School Music Association Solo and Ensemble Evaluation Festival.

In addition to students from the district, more than 800 music students from neighboring communities converged to participate in the NYSSMA event. Students from Comsewogue, Middle Country, Sachem, Smithtown and Three Village school districts and the private institutions The Laurel Hill School and The Stony Brook School, performed for a NYSSMA adjudicator who provided constructive feedback and a score to each participant.

As a host for the event, Port Jefferson music faculty and student volunteers helped guide visitors throughout the building, monitored evaluation rooms and worked closely with state NYSSMA representatives to make sure that the festival ran efficiently.

“Special congratulations to all participating student-musicians, volunteers and our entire Port Jefferson staff for creating a positive and memorable musical experience for students across Suffolk County,” the district’s Director of Music and Fine Arts and festival chairperson, Dr. Michael Caravello said.