Seven Colonie Central High School music students performed at the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) Area All-State Music Festival at the beautiful and historic Proctors Theater in Schenectady on November 8 and 9. Students were selected based on their high scores on an adjudicated NYSSMA solo last spring and teacher recommendation.

South Colonie is honored to have students chosen for this prestigious music festival!

The participants performed alongside other talented high school students from a 50-mile radius in an honors band, orchestra, chorus, and jazz band.  Guest conductors included composer/saxophonist Christine Jensen (jazz band) from the Eastman School of Music, Dr. Vernon Huff (chorus) from SUNY Fredonia, Erin Althen (band) from Westhill Central Schools in Syracuse, Dr. James Mick (Orchestra) from Ithaca College.  After a weekend of intensive rehearsals, the students presented a concert showcasing their achievements.

Performing with the band was Samuel Rhode (percussion). Performing with the chorus was Olivia O’Donnell (Soprano). Performing with the orchestra were Hei Cheng (violin), Laura Kita (violin), Nguyet-Vien Le (violin), Grace Manuyag (viola), and Grant Pollack (viola).