Maria Arneil grew up in central Pennsylvania, where she played in the school band, marching band, and sang in the chorus. During high school, she participated in the National Piano Guild Auditions and took part in multiple PMEA festivals on both the bassoon and clarinet. She accepted a scholarship to West Chester University, where she majored in bassoon and minored in vocal performance and piano.
While in college, Maria performed with several ensembles, including the Golden Rams Marching Band, orchestra, women’s choir, Masterworks choir, wind ensemble, symphonic band, and the double reed ensemble. She took on leadership roles in Alpha Phi Omega, a national service fraternity, and received the presidential award, graduating with honors from West Chester University in 2000.
After graduation, Maria began her career at Susquehanna Community School District, teaching band to students from 4th to 12th grade. Outside of her teaching responsibilities, she led a local Girl Scout troop, participated in the music ministry at Susquehanna First Baptist Church, and provided private instrumental lessons. Additionally, she served as the assistant director of The Crystal Band of Scranton for several years.
In 2004, Maria accepted a position as an elementary teacher in the Western Wayne School District, where she took on the role of assistant marching band director. Around 2012, she transitioned to the middle school band position. Throughout her time at Western Wayne, Maria has taken on various roles, including assistant band director, music department chair, vocal director for the musicals, accompanist, and stage director.
Outside of school, Maria is actively involved in the music ministry at Canaan Bible Chapel and is a dedicated mother of two, often serving as a referee for swim meets and a vocal supporter during basketball games. Her hobbies include hiking, fishing, and railfanning.