Published: June 28, 2008 11:51 pm         

Music school students entertain at annual event

The Greater Johnstown School of Music held its annual summer performance and picnic Saturday afternoon.

The event, which is held on the school grounds in Geistown along Oakmont Boulevard, is the third for the school.

The afternoon featured solo, duet and group performances by the students ranging from ages 5 through adult.

Guitar student Allie Polash, 12, of Windber, was one of the day’s performers.

Polash believes the performance is an important part of her music education.

“It helps to give us experience so we can play in front of people,” she said.

Eleven-year-old drummer Justin Hrabosky of Brownstown agrees.

“It helps you learn to control your emotions and get in front of a big crowd,” he said.

“I’m not nervous at all,” said Joshua Shortt, 6, of Westmont, as he prepared to go before the crowd of about 100 people and play the drums.

His instructor, Scott Mort, took the young drummer aside and offered some advice.

‘If you make a mistake Josh, just keep on moving,” Mort said.

Tony Piskurich of Richland was in attendance to see his son, Nick, play the drums.

“This is a great opportunity for the kids to showcase what they do all year,” Piskurich said. “It is good for their self-esteem.

“It reinforces to the students that the performing arts is important. It is more than just sports.”

A highlight of the day was the presentation of the Vrabel Awards, which is based on the day’s performance. The award is named after Jerry Vrabel, one of the school’s founders, who passed away unexpectedly in January 2007.

This year’s winners were: Jason Avramis, 12, of Salix, guitarist; Tyler Smith, 16, of Johnstown, guitarist; Cass Vivis, 12, of Davidsville, drums.

Mary Faiers is the director of the school and one of the organizers of the event.

“The students, as well as the parents, look forward to the event,” Faiers said.

Forming the teaching staff at the school are: Mort, Faiers, Don Wozniak, Dave Dzelsky, Larry McGiboney, Steve Muzzie, Ellen Callihan and Kevin Rizzo.

The school was founded in January 2005 by a group of former teachers for Oswald Music in Richland.

     

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