Fairmont State announces Dr. Alyssa Schwartz to lead the University’s band programs

Fairmont State University has announced Dr. Alyssa Schwartz will lead the band programs as the University’s band director. Schwartz brings extensive experience in directing, performing and quality instruction to the position.

“I am very excited for the opportunity to work with the wonderful students of our Falcon Marching Band and Concert Band,” Schwartz said. “Our ensemble is eager to bring live musical performances to campus this fall through music that is both engaging for all audiences and musically challenging for the performers. We are looking forward to a high level of community engagement this year through parade performances, community outreach and programming a benefit concert.”

Schwartz appeared as a featured soloist with the West Virginia University Wind Symphony in 2017, and on several occasions with the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony. She has performed as the principal flute with the Allegheny Chamber Players, WVU Symphony Orchestra, WVU Chamber Orchestra, WVU Faculty Chamber Players and Brazil Jazz Ensemble. She has also performed with the BETA Quartet, Erie Chamber Orchestra, Warren Philharmonic Orchestra, Lansing Symphony Orchestra, Hillcrest Chamber Ensemble and the Michigan State University Symphony Orchestra.

As a competitive performer, she has won several first-place awards in music, most recently performing in Germany for her solo debut and a chance to perform in Beethoven’s home.
Schwartz has also earned several scholarships throughout her career, including the Helga Hulse Mozart Club Music Scholarship, WVU Music Scholarship, Michigan State University Music Scholarship, CCMTA Overall Best Musician Award, among others.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Schwartz in this role at Fairmont State,” said Fairmont State University President, Mirta M. Martin. “Her expertise and long-established career in music instruction and performance will allow our bands to thrive under her leadership.”

Schwartz is originally from Jamestown, New York. In addition to her role as band director, Schwartz currently serves as a Fairmont State advising director. Schwartz is also the director of the Morgantown Community Orchestra and a senior instructor of flute and piano through the WVU Community Music Program.

Featured

SHOPS & SERVICES

Upshur County Courthouse

County approves $11.5-million-dollar budget, which includes several earmarked ARPA-funded projects

BUCKHANNON – The Upshur County Commission’s budget for the 2023-2024 fiscal year saw increases in the regional jail bill and increases to PEIA premiums, but commissioners were still able to provide 3 percent raises across elected officials’ departments. Upshur County […]

Become a premium member to unlock immediate access to this story and thousands more. Plus you’ll wake up every morning to our email edition. Your subscription supports local news by local writers. Signing up is easy — just tap the button below!

SHOPS & SERVICES

Baseball Bucs improve to 3-0 with 17-7 win over North Marion

TENNERTON – Three games, three 10-run mercy rule victories. The season couldn’t be off to a better start for Buckhannon-Upshur head baseball coach Adam Squires and his Buccaneers after downing the North Marion Huskies by a 17-7 score in five […]

Become a premium member to unlock immediate access to this story and thousands more. Plus you’ll wake up every morning to our email edition. Your subscription supports local news by local writers. Signing up is easy — just tap the button below!

Lacrosse Bucs pick up first win defeating St. Albans late, 6-5

ST. ALBANS – The Buckhannon-Upshur Buccaneer lacrosse team rallied in the second half for a 6-5 victory over the homestanding St. Albans Dragons Thursday night. It was the first victory of the year for the Bucs as they improved to […]

Become a premium member to unlock immediate access to this story and thousands more. Plus you’ll wake up every morning to our email edition. Your subscription supports local news by local writers. Signing up is easy — just tap the button below!

Lacrosse Lady Bucs fall in debut to University, 15-7

TENNERTON – The Buckhannon-Upshur Lady Buc lacrosse team dropped their season opener to University by a 15-7 score Wednesday evening at Freal “Red” Crites Memorial Stadium. Kendall Defibaugh led the Buckhannon-Upshur scoring attack with three goals while Maya Garcia contributed […]

Become a premium member to unlock immediate access to this story and thousands more. Plus you’ll wake up every morning to our email edition. Your subscription supports local news by local writers. Signing up is easy — just tap the button below!

Lady Buc netters edged by Minutemaids, 4-3

TENNERTON – The Buckhannon-Upshur Lady Buc tennis team was oh so close to picking up a home win against the Lewis County Minutemaids in a 4-3 setback Wednesday evening at the West Virginia Wesleyan courts. After doubles action, the Lady […]

Become a premium member to unlock immediate access to this story and thousands more. Plus you’ll wake up every morning to our email edition. Your subscription supports local news by local writers. Signing up is easy — just tap the button below!

SHOPS & SERVICES

Upshur Stars recognized at recent Board of Education meeting

BUCKHANNON — Buckhannon-Upshur High School and Fred Eberle Technical Center students were recognized at a recent Upshur County Board of Education meeting for their excellence in recent competitions. B-UHS swim coaches Mrs. Jennifer Bennett and Mr.