Sullivan County's schools are alive with the sounds of music once again!

For the first time since March 2020, musicians from all eight Sullivan County school districts gathered together for what was once an annual occasion: The Sullivan County Music Educators' Association All-County Music Festival.

Hosted by the Monticello High School, this year's festival hosted more than 160 student musicians from around the county who came together Friday to meet with each other and guest conductors, learn new pieces of music, and perform in front of live audiences the following day.

Music education has always been important for children, Monticello Board of Education President and NYS School Music Association State Advocacy Chair Lori Orestano-James pointed out on Saturday afternoon.

But when the pandemic hit, just how vital music is in our lives became all the more apparent as kids and their families turned to making music together and sharing it with the world across social media.

"Social emotional learning is embedded in what we do for students and adults to ensure a peaceful and healthy society. So, I share and place before you, that music education is one of the most critical components of a well rounded education for all our students," Orestano-James said. "What we know is good learning cannot take place until learners feel safe and trusting in the educational environment. Music brings that to all students."

This year's event marked the 67th to be held by the music educators' association to celebrate National Music in Our Schools Month.