Fryeburg Academy Jazz Excels at State Festival

Fryeburg Academy musicians delivered an outstanding performance at the 2026 Maine State Instrumental Jazz Festival, held March 13–14 at Hampden Academy, one of the state’s top showcases for high school jazz.

Four FA groups performed, with the Big Band and Party In a Box combo earning Gold ratings. The Trombone and Tribulations combo and Slide Grease Combo each brought home Silver, capping off a successful weekend across the board.

Several students were recognized individually. Combo Outstanding Musician honors went to Peter Priestman '29, John DellaValla '28, and Lilia Vishnyakov '26. In the Big Band division, John DellaValla '28, Serena DiNucci '27, and Molly Schor '27 were honored, while Joseph DellaValla '26 received the festival’s top distinction, the Dale Huff Outstanding Musician Award.

“This is a group that really supports each other and puts in the work,” said Mike Sakash, music director and arts chair at Fryeburg Academy. “To see them perform at this level and be recognized across so many categories is something we’re really proud of.”