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Manatee County’s middle school musicians recently shined on stage at the 2025 Florida Bandmasters MPA (Music Performance Assessment) hosted by Manatee High School.
Four schools received the highest rating, Superior – which is the equivalent to receiving an “A” grade. Four schools received an Excellent rating, and two more schools received positive feedback after their first MPA performance. Congratulations to all the student musicians and their music directors for their successful performances!
Superior Overall Rating:
- Braden River Middle School Wind Ensemble, 35 musicians / Director: Ethan Hacker
- Buffalo Creek Middle School Wind Ensemble, 52 musicians / Director: Michael Kawalya
- Haile Middle School Wind Ensemble, 35 musicians / Director: Durrell Harpole
- King Middle School Concert Band, 44 musicians / Director: Kimberly Evans
Excellent Overall Rating:
- Dr. Mona Jain Middle School Concert Band, 77 musicians / Director: Charles Hernandez
- Lee Middle School Symphonic Band, 45 musicians / Director: Jacob Grimes
- Johnson K-8 Advanced Band, 61 musicians / Director: Julie Duryea
- Nolan Middle School Wind Ensemble / Director: Michael Reynolds
Comments Only*:
- Lincoln Memorial Middle School Concert Band, 42 students / Director: Mackenzie Meiers
- Sugg Middle School Concert Band, 28 students / Director: Marshall Knapp
*No ratings given. First-year directors may choose this option to give their students the learning experience.
