East Meadow musicians to take part in NYSSMA festival

Five students in the East Meadow School District have earned one of the highest honors in New York State music education: selection to the NYSSMA All-State Festival. These talented young musicians will perform among the state’s best at the annual Winter Conference in Rochester this December. Several additional students were also recognized as All-State alternates for their exceptional audition scores.

1: The All-State Festival is the highest level of NYSSMA performance

Five East Meadow School District musicians have earned spots to perform at the New York State School Music Association’s prestigious All-State Festival, taking place Dec. 4–7 in Rochester. The event brings together the strongest high school musicians from across New York, selected through a rigorous audition and evaluation process. Students perform a Level VI solo — the most challenging in the NYSSMA repertoire — and must receive a score between 98 and 100 from an accredited adjudicator to qualify. Once selected, musicians rehearse with guest conductors and perform in elite ensembles that represent the best of statewide music education. Being chosen is not only a personal achievement, but also a reflection of strong school music programs and teacher support.

2: Five local students will represent the district in top ensembles

Three East Meadow High School students and two from W.T. Clarke High School will take the stage this year. Caleb Roy will perform on bassoon with the Symphonic Band, showcasing one of the most unique and technically demanding woodwind instruments. Michael Bodzin will join the Instrumental Jazz Ensemble on jazz drum set, a placement requiring improvisational skill and rhythmic precision. Jaiden Webman will appear in the Modern Band Showcase on alto saxophone, a newer NYSSMA feature highlighting contemporary styles. From W.T. Clarke, Connie Dong was selected for the Symphony Orchestra on violin, while Charlotte Huang will sing alto 1 in the Treble Chorus, performing alongside top vocalists from across New York State.

3: Several students were also recognized as All-State alternates

Alongside the main selections, several students earned alternate status — a notable achievement that reflects near-perfect scores and high musical proficiency. Alternates may be invited to perform if openings occur in their ensemble. From East Meadow High School, the alternates are Kailyn Kim and Sofiia Nosarieva. From W.T. Clarke, alternates include Corven Cillo, another student named Charlotte Huang and Kaiden Mayers. Being named an alternate signals that these musicians were among the top scorers statewide in their instrument or voice part. The district recognizes all selected and alternate students, celebrating the dedication, practice and passion that earned them this prestigious honor.