At this year’s Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) conference last week at the Kalahari Resort and Convention center in the Poconos, the Hershey High School band, led by Brandon Buterbaugh, and Hershey High School orchestra, led by Brian Buterbaugh, stood
out—not just because of their skill, but because both groups were invited to perform. That’s rare. That’s elite.
At the heart of it all are the Buterbaugh brothers, champions of a shared vision: that excellence begins with culture.
“We want students to want to be here,” Brandon says. “That means creating an environment where they feel connected, challenged, and proud of their growth.”
Brian, who had already been teaching for nearly a decade before joining his younger brother at HHS, agrees. “We’ve both been shaped by music since childhood—our parents were music educators, too. But what we’ve built here isn’t just about music. It’s about community.”
And that community is thriving. According to parent Gregg Starr, whose son Collin plays percussion in both ensembles, “What Brandon and Brian have done is create a culture where students feel a real sense of belonging. They want to work hard—not because they have to, but because they love being part of something bigger.”
It shows. Practice rooms stay busy throughout the day. Students take on self-directed challenges. Rehearsals are collaborative, not competitive. “The kids have more pride now,” Brian says. “They want to strive for excellence. They want to be with each other, and that
makes them more willing to work with each other.”
That spirit was on full display at PMEA. Performing in front of a discerning audience of music educators from across the state, the student musicians delivered a performance that drew audible gasps and a standing ovation. “This wasn’t just a concert,” said Starr. “It was a
recognition from the broader music education community that what’s happening here is special.”
And it starts early. The Buterbaughs work closely with instrumental teachers at the elementary and middle school levels to ensure consistency and mentorship. “It’s a full-program approach,” Brian says. “We’re building something that lasts.”
Brandon also notes the unique bond that comes from working side-by-side with his brother. “We trust each other. It makes planning events and concerts so much easier—and way more fun.”
They also credit the support of Principal Lindsey Schmidt and Derry Township Superintendent Dr. Stacy Winslow. “They let us be excellent,” Brandon says. “They support ideas, trips, schedules, resources—whatever it takes to give these kids the opportunities they’ve earned.”
It’s a rare harmony: talent, teamwork, and trust. And while the applause at PMEA has faded, the impact of what’s happening in the halls of Hershey High is still ringing loud and clear.
