Penn-Delco Students Represent District at 5/6 Delco Band Fest

Several students from across the district recently participated in the Delaware County 5/6 Grade Band Fest, held on March 19, 2026, at Drexel Hill Middle School.

The festival brought together 100 student musicians from throughout Delaware County for a unique, one-day experience. Students met for the first time that morning and spent more than six hours rehearsing before performing a full concert that evening. Their participation followed months of preparation leading up to the event.

This year’s band was led by guest conductor Dr. Hannah Morrison of West Chester University.

Students representing the district were:

Aston Elementary

• Charlie Coale (trombone)
• Connor Huber (French horn)
• Grayson Zebley (saxophone)

Coebourn Elementary

• Eli Hazlett (trombone)
• Kyle Minko (flute)

Pennell Elementary

• Ryan MacDonald (trumpet)

Parkside Elementary

• Gianna Iacaro (trumpet)

6th Grade Participants

• Ryan McClintock (clarinet)
• Tyler Meredith (trombone)
• Ari Gillman (saxophone)
• Julie Abbott (flute)
• Jay Camp (trumpet)

In addition to performing, Aston student Charlie Coale volunteered to conduct the ensemble on the piece “Every Day New” by William Owens, providing a memorable highlight of the evening.

The Band Fest offers students the opportunity to collaborate with peers from across the county while working with an accomplished guest conductor, culminating in a same-day performance that showcases their hard work and musical growth.