PHOENIX, NY – The Phoenix community filled the John C. Birdlebough auditorium recently as the Phoenix Central School District inducted its first two members into their newly-formed Music Hall of Fame.
Kayleigh Moyer and the late Anthony “Mr. P” Pietricola became the inaugural members of the Phoenix Central School District Music Hall of Fame. Kayleigh is an alumna of the Class of 2011, and Anthony was a longtime educator at the district.
Moyer is a session musician and touring drummer who has toured North America, Europe, and China, and has worked with many well-known musicians such as Big & Rich, Keith Urban, Thompson Square, and Postmodern Jukebox.
Pietricola was a renowned and respected musician as well, performing alongside some of the twentieth century’s biggest names in music, such as Nat King Cole, Tony Bennett, Sammy Davis Jr., and Mary Lou Williams. He also served as a music educator at Phoenix from 1960-1980. He lived to be 104 years old.
“This is so humbling,” said Moyer. “This community has given me so much. The arts programs here at Phoenix are truly incredible, and I count myself lucky and proud to be a Firebird.”
“We’ve been talking about this for several years now,” said Phoenix Superintendent Chris Byrne. “Last year we really pushed to make it happen, and I’m glad we did. Our goal is to recognize the accomplishments of the incredible musicians, actors, actresses, directors, and anyone else who has contributed to the Phoenix music program throughout the years.”
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