Lydia Freethy graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in May of 2025 with a B.A. in Music and B.S. in Ecology and Evolution. A native of Hawley, she started playing piano at the age of 8 under the instruction of Theresa Gumble and continued to grow her love of music through a variety of choirs and bands at Wallenpaupack. Through middle and high school, Lydia accompanied the school choirs on piano, and was a part of jazz band, wind ensemble, chamber choir, show choir, the WAHS Players, and marching band, where she served as drum major for her sophomore, junior and senior years of high school. Lydia also had the honor to participate in the PMEA District, Region and All-State choir festivals from 2019-2021 as well as the NAfME All-Eastern Choir in 2021. During her time in college, Lydia played piccolo and flute in the concert band and marching band, and she also performed with the bell choir for 4 years, where she served as conductor for the ensemble for her last 2 years of college. Lydia continued to study piano under the instruction of Dr. Donna Amato and collaborated with student vocalists and flutists as a piano accompanist in recitals and showcases.Â

       Lydia continues to perform as a pianist with different artists, groups and theatres throughout the area, including the Little Theatre of Wilkes-Barre and the Ritz Company Playhouse. For the past 5 summers, Lydia has assisted Caroline Lehman as musical director for the Ritz Bitz Junior musicals, where she helps young actors learn and develop their musical skills. This past summer was her first time joining the pit at the Ritz where she served as Assistant Musical Director and played piano for the musical Kiss Me Kate.

       Lydia currently works at PJ’s Garden Center and serves as the Assistant Band Director for the marching band at Crestwood High School where she writes and teaches marching drill and music. Lydia is looking forward to working with beginner and intermediate students of all ages at the Black Bear Conservatory of Music.