Williams Valley Honors Two Graduates with Valley Lifelong Alumni Music Awards

The Williams Valley Alumni Band Association presented its annual Valley Lifelong Alumni Music Awards on May 5 during the Spring Choral and Band Concert, recognizing two graduates who have continued their dedication to music long after their high school years.

This year’s recipients were Kenny Shadle, Class of 1994, who received the vocal music award, and Chelsea Ferraro, Class of 2014, who earned the instrumental music award.

The Valley Lifelong Alumni Music Awards were established in 2020 by the Williams Valley Alumni Band Association to honor alumni who have remained involved in some form of vocal or instrumental music for at least 10 years following graduation from Williams Valley. Through the awards, the Alumni Band hopes to show current students that music can become a lifelong passion and activity.

Shadle was recognized for his continued involvement in music since graduating from Williams Valley in 1994. During his time at the school, he participated in both the vocal and instrumental music programs, playing trumpet from fourth through sixth grade before switching to baritone horn throughout junior and senior high school. He also participated in chorus, The Singers, and school musicals during his junior and senior years.

While attending college, Shadle began playing guitar and became known by the nickname “Garth” because of the country music he performed. After graduation, he returned to the area where he played and led worship at church for 12 years before eventually beginning solo performances throughout Central Pennsylvania.

Today, Shadle continues sharing his passion for music with his three sons and encouraged current students to pursue what they love without fear.

“With the unlimited amount of resources that exist in today’s society, the only thing that can stand in the way of doing something you love to do is YOU!” Shadle said.

Ferraro received the instrumental award for her years of continued musical involvement and dedication to music education. A 2014 graduate, Ferraro became involved in music at a young age, participating in the kindergarten talent show before joining the instrumental program in fourth grade as a trumpet player. Throughout high school, she performed in concert, jazz, and marching bands while also participating in several honors bands.

She was also active in chorus beginning in fifth grade and participated in county choir, district chorus, and school musicals. Outside of school, Ferraro performed with the Gabriel Youth Orchestra, Anthracite Youth Wind Symphony, and the Lykens Community Band.

After graduating from Williams Valley, Ferraro attended Gettysburg College as a music education major and participated in numerous musical ensembles and organizations during her college years. She now serves as the high school music teacher and director of bands for the Mahanoy Area High School.

Outside the classroom, Ferraro remains active in community theater productions, pit orchestras, the Schuylkill Choral Society, Majestic Singers, After Hours Big Band, Williams Valley Community Choir, and Pine Grove Community Band. She also earned her master’s degree from Lebanon Valley College.

In advice directed toward current students, Ferraro encouraged young musicians to challenge themselves, embrace growth, and not be afraid of failure while developing their talents.