Mondays with Mike: All-State to Advent
Music That Forms and Offers
Hello PCA Family,
As we enter the final week before Christmas break, I want to share a conversation that lifts the curtain on two joyful parts of our school life: our All-State musicians and the Christmas concerts taking place across campus this week. This episode of Mondays with Mike features four of our All-State performers—Anna (’27), Chloe (’26), Luke (’28), and Jeremiah (’26)—as well as Simeon (’27), one of our cellists, who joins in to talk about the instrumental side of the experience.
Together, they represent a larger group of seven PCA vocalists and two cellists selected for All-State this year. Their stories offer a glimpse into the discipline, courage, and joy that shape young musicians as they pursue excellence to the glory of God. They speak about the audition process, the community that forms around shared work, and the way music—especially during Advent—draws our hearts toward hope and worship.
If you haven’t seen their Christmas Jazz and Vocal concert from last Thursday, I encourage you to catch it HERE. And please attend/tune in to see your kids and fellow PCA musicians perform at our 5-12 Band and Orchestra Christmas concert Tuesday evening, 6:30PM.
Blessed Advent and Christmas to each and all!
Mike Runey
Head of School
Portsmouth Christian Academy
“It does seem like a big commitment, and it is a big commitment, but it is so much fun.” – Chloe, Class of 2026
““Even if you do not get in [to All-State], that is just a way to improve.” – Anna, Class of 2027
Key Takeaways
- Nine PCA musicians were selected for All-State, part of a larger group of fourteen who prepared and auditioned—an exceptional year for our fine arts program.
- Their stories highlight real formation: discipline, courage, healthy competition, and the desire to offer their gifts to the Lord with excellence and joy.
- Students describe PCA’s fine arts community as encouraging, inclusive, and spiritually grounding, shaped by teachers who mentor them well.
- This year’s Christmas concerts reflect a school-wide offering, uniting our youngest students through seniors, instrumentalists, vocalists in ways that challenge, delight, and bring joy.
- Their musical reflections point to Christ, especially through pieces that depict the wonder of the Incarnation and the beauty of worship.
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