Niskayuna music teachers receive top honors at NYSSMA conference

Music teacher Christina Pizzino-Catalano singing in front of a standing microphoneTwo Niskayuna High School music teachers were recently recognized for their contributions to music education.

Director of Choral Studies Christina Pizzino-Catalano was awarded the 2025 New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) Established Educator Award. The award recognizes educators for their exceptional support and outstanding accomplishments in music education.

To receive the award, recipients must be a retired or active NYSSMA member in music education for at least 16 years. Award recipients also must show they can effectively teach music and inspire positive attitudes among students, their school and the community. Recipients are also required to demonstrate continued interest in music education through strong involvement in NYSSMA and other district or local organizations.

Band teacher Phil Pandori playing a trombone with studentsIn addition, Director of Concert Band and Jazz Ensembles Phil Pandori was unanimously inducted into the New York state chapter of Phi Beta Mu International Band Masters. Phi Beta Mu is an international music fraternity that honors outstanding band directors for their dedication and devotion to the profession.

Pandori was one of three band directors inducted into the New York state chapter of the fraternity this year.

Both Pizzino-Catalano and Pandori were honored at the 2025 NYSSMA Winter Conference in Rochester, New York, from Dec. 4-7.