Kiera Wilkinson awarded the 2021 Frank J. Farina Jr. Award for Musical Excellence

We are excited to announce our 2021 Award for Musical Excellence winner – Kiera Wilkinson of North Allegheny Senior High School.

Kiera, originally from Boston, MA began playing the trombone in fourth grade. Although an uncommon instrument selection for an elementary aged student Kiera quickly fell in love with it. Kiera continued her musical pursuit when her family relocated to Pittsburgh, PA landing in the competitive North Allegheny School District. Throughout her high school career Kiera became the marching drum major, established both a jazz funk and jazz big band group with her music peers, and participated in the Pittsburgh Youth Concert Orchestra, and the North Allegheny Spring Musical Orchestra among other endeavors. Kiera plans to continue her musical aspirations by studying music education in college. When asked about her plans after college Kiera said: “My plan is to become a high school band director. In this job I also hope to be able to direct the marching band or jazz band. Such ensembles are what brought me my love for music, and I want to be able to share my love for music and learning with the next generation of musicians.”