Penfield Central School District was once again recognized as a Best Communities for Music Education, an honor given by the NAMM Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM).

Now in its 27th year, the award recognizes schools and districts nationwide for their leadership in expanding equitable access to music education.

Penfield’s K-12 music program boasts 24 educators who teach hundreds of students orchestra, band, jazz band, choir, general music, and more. At Penfield High School, students can take music theory, AP music theory, and studio engineering and recording. Celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2026, Penfield also offers a traditional Suzuki string program, with students starting as early as first grade.

One of the hallmarks of the music program is the support given by the Penfield Music Commission Project (PMCP), which supports music education across the District. Over the last 50 years, PMCP has funded residency visits from renowned musicians including Max Roach (drums), Clark Terry (trumpet), Jeff Coffin (saxophone), and Darmon Meader (saxophone), among others. What makes the program so unique is that the PMCP also commissions original pieces to be performed at each concert. Since the 1980s, PMCP has commissioned more than 400 works for its students and resident artists.

Further evidence of the program’s strength is seen in the number of Penfield students selected each year for All County, Area All-State, and Conference All-State ensembles. Students also regularly participate in honor ensembles at Hochstein (Philharmonia, Youth Symphony Orchestra, Junior Wind Symphony and Youth Wind Symphony) and the Rochester Philharmonic Youth Symphony Orchestra.

Penfield Among RBTL “Stars of Tomorrow” Honorees

Penfield’s production of The Drowsy Chaperone earned several accolades given by the Rochester Broadway Theatre League’s 2026 Stars of Tomorrow program.

The performance earned a place in several categories, including “The Showstoppers,” “Achievement in Theatrical Storytelling,” “Achievement in Acting Ensemble,” “Achievement in Vocal Ensemble,” “Achievement in Dance Ensemble,” “achievement in Production Crew,” “Achievement in Production Design,” and “Achievement in Student Orchestra.”

Student performers Stella Richard (The Drowsy Chaperone), Linkon Bode (Adolpho), Carlie Gibbons (Janet Van DeGraf), Parker Gibbs (Robert), and Mason Gardner (Man in Chair) were recognized in the “Achievement in a Leading Role” category.