MVAA celebrates student achievements
The Mon Valley Academy for the Arts is celebrating four standout students who have earned major musical honors across regional and national stages.
The MVAA, a nonprofit organization based in Brownsville, offers a variety of musical instruction, visual arts workshops, ensembles and free community concerts, all aimed at building stronger communities and connecting artists with the region.
MVAA leaders say the achievements of Samuel Vollstedt, Gracieana Grimes, Lucas Salaway and Grey Fertal highlight their mission in action.
Samuel “Sam” Vollstedt was named the Brownsville Area High School Rotary Student of the Month for November 2025. He performs with Take 5 Brass, the Regimental Fife and Drum Corps, the Twin Coaches Junior Stage Band, and the Sam Bill Legacy Band.
He also composes and arranges music while studying under CJ Rhen, Tyler Evans, and Jean Swinker.
Vollstedt plans to pursue aerospace engineering after graduation.
Two MVAA musicians, Frazier High School students Gracieana Grimes and Lucas Salaway, secured spots in the 2025 Macy’s Great American Marching Band.
They will perform in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on Thursday.
Both also play with the Legends Drum and Bugle Corps and remain active in the Frazier and Brownsville music communities.
Grey Fertal was selected for the 2026 Fay West Honors Band Festival, set for Jan. 16 at Southmoreland High School.
Fertal is known for his range as a performer, playing euphonium, fife and drum, saxophone and accordion.
He is also recognized as a visual artist. He performs with the Sam Bill Legacy Band and the MVAA Legends Drum and Bugle Corps.
