Music

Pittsford’s Winning Rhythm: 21 Years as a Best Community for Music Education

For the 21st time, Pittsford Central School District has been recognized by the NAMM Foundation (National Association of Music Merchants) as one of the nation’s Best Communities for Music Education.

This prestigious honor celebrates school districts that demonstrate exceptional commitment to providing students with access to high-quality music education. In 2026, Pittsford is among just 1,000 school districts nationwide to receive the distinction.

The award recognizes the collective efforts of teachers, administrators, families, students, and community members who help make music education a valued part of the Pittsford experience.

Recipients are selected through a rigorous application and review process that examines key factors such as funding, instructional time, student participation, facilities, and community support.

Congratulations to the Mendon High School Wind Ensemble for earning a Level 6 Gold with Distinction rating at the NYSSMA Major Organization Festival in Spencerport. This represents both the most challenging level of literature and the highest rating awarded. Kudos to our students and their director, Paul Maguda, for this outstanding accomplishment.

Three Pittsford high school students were recently honored at the David Hochstein Memorial Recital Competition, a prestigious event that celebrates outstanding musical talent and achievement.

The competition is open to advanced instrumentalists in grades 10–12 from a nine-county region surrounding Rochester. To qualify, students must prepare and perform challenging repertoire in a variety of styles before a jury of distinguished professional musicians. Winners receive a $500 award and are invited to perform in a spring recital at Hochstein, which will be recorded for later broadcast on WXXI Classical FM, 91.5.

Please join the District in congratulating the following students on this exceptional accomplishment:

Pittsford Sutherland High School

• Michael Shi, clarinet — Grand Prize, Woodwind/Brass/Percussion/Harp/Guitar category
• Jasmine Wu, piano — Grand Prize, Piano category

Pittsford Mendon High School

• Youyou Wu, violin — Honorable Mention, Strings category

20 Years Strong: Pittsford Honored as One of the Nation’s Best for Music Education

For the 20th time, Pittsford Central School District has been honored by the NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) Foundation as one of the “Best Communities for Music Education.” This prestigious national recognition is awarded to school districts that demonstrate outstanding commitment and support for music education as part of a well-rounded academic experience.

Pittsford CSD is one of just 935 school districts and 88 individual schools across the country to receive this distinction in 2025. The award celebrates the collaborative efforts of teachers, administrators, parents, students, and community leaders who make music education a priority in their schools.

The NAMM Foundation’s award highlights communities that ensure access to music education for all students and exemplify its importance in fostering creativity, academic success, and lifelong learning.