PCHS Bulletin - Jayden Martinez and Lexi Brielmann
Date Published - May 29, 2026
The music programs continue to excel at Parrish Community High School. The chorus, band, and orchestra programs all demonstrated their technical mastery and artistic growth by competing at the prestigious State Music Performance Assessments (MPAs). This accomplishment marks a significant milestone for the school, showcasing the relentless dedication of the student musicians and the high caliber of instruction provided by the faculty.
This year is the first time these programs have attended state MPA competitions. To qualify, each program must get straight superiors at the district level.
On April 14, the Symphony Orchestra took their turn on the state stage. Competing at states for the first time in the school's history, the ensemble delivered a performance that earned them an overall Excellent rating. The achievement was punctuated by a significant vote of confidence from the panel: one judge awarded the group a Superior rating, highlighting the high ceiling of the program’s talent.
"I’m really proud of everybody," said Orchestra Director Tyler Habig. "It was the first time the school had been to state for Orchestra and also did very well with an excellent rating overall, a judge even gave us a superior."
The choir program took four of their choirs to the state MPAs April 20-21 in Orlando. They all received straight superior ratings. The Women’s Combined Choir specifically earned a Superior with Distinction rating, the highest possible in choral MPAs.
The Distinction portion of the rating is rarely given out to choirs. The Women’s Combined Choir received straight Superiors and demonstrated exceptional artistry in their performance, qualifying them for the honor.
The PCHS Wind Ensemble rounded out the season of competition at State MPA on May 2 at Venice High School. Facing off against some of the most established programs in the region, the Wind Ensemble walked away with a good rating. This was the first time any of the band's students attended State MPA, and that is an impressive accomplishment for the band program.
“Going to State MPA was really cool. Performing on the stage in Venice was an awesome experience as a player as that venue is so beautiful,” said Junior Lily Asher.
The music programs concluded the year with a series of spring concerts.
As the program continues to grow, directors and students alike view this year’s state appearance as a vital steppingstone. Qualifying for state MPAs in the same year as their peers in chorus and orchestra solidifies Parrish Community High as a rising powerhouse in the Florida music scene. With trophies in the case and a new reputation to uphold, the PCHS music department has set a high bar for the years to come. For these students, music isn't just a class—it's a legacy and art form.