Liberty Central School District has been recognized for the seventh consecutive year as one of the nation’s Best Communities for Music Education, an honor awarded by the NAMM Foundation.
The designation recognizes districts for their commitment to music education based on factors including funding, instructional time, participation rates, facilities and community support. Applications are reviewed and verified by WolfBrown, an independent research and evaluation firm.
“Music education is essential education,” said Eric Aweh, the district’s director of music. “Creativity, discipline and emotional expression as well as cognitive and motor skills are all enhanced through music.”
Students in the district participate in a range of music-related activities throughout the year, including concerts, ensembles, parades and all-county and all-state events. The district also hosted the Sullivan County All-County Music Festival in March. The Liberty Jazz Festival, typically part of the annual lineup, was canceled this year due to weather.
The district’s spring concert series is scheduled to begin May 6 with the Liberty High School Mixed Spring Concert, followed by performances on May 12 and May 14. An elementary concert is set for June 1. All concerts are scheduled for 6:30 p.m. in the high school auditorium. The annual Liberty Music and Community Fest is planned for June 10 at Lapolt Park.
“It is important for schools to foster an understanding — and love — of music in our students,” Superintendent Patrick Sullivan said. “The NAMM Foundation’s continued recognition of our dedication to providing a quality music education where that understanding and love can bloom is appreciated.”
Now in its 27th year, the Best Communities for Music Education program honors districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in providing access to music education for all students. The NAMM Foundation is a nonprofit supported in part by the National Association of Music Merchants.
>Image: Musicians participate in the annual Sullivan County All County Music Festival at Liberty High School in March 2026. (Liberty Central School District)