Media Music Teacher Wins MLB All-Star Competition, Throws Out First Pitch

PHILADELPHIA — The 2026 MLB All-Star Game began with a Media music teacher throwing the ceremonial first pitch.

Shana Pistilli, founder of Rubato School of Music, was the winner of the 2026 MLB & Mastercard Small Business Pitch Competition.

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Pistilli was selected among 119 applicants for the grand prize: a $10,000 small-business grant, mentorship from Mastercard and the chance to throw the ceremonial first pitch before the All-Star Game at Citizens Bank Park.

With a focus on inclusion, Rubato offers lessons to students of all abilities. Last year, the business won Build a Music School's award for Music School of the Year, for schools with fewer than 100 students.

Founded in 2022, Rubato began as a 200-square-foot music studio but has grown since, while maintaining a 98 percent student retention rate, according to MLB.com.

"Being recognized by MLB and Mastercard is an incredible honor, but what makes this award so meaningful is what it represents," Pistilli said in a statement. "Four years ago, Rubato started with one simple belief: Every student deserves a place to belong."

Rubato School of Music is located at 630 S Ridley Creek Road.