March is “Music in our Schools Month,” a time to spotlight the vital role music plays in education and its profound impact on students, schools, and communities. This annual observance aims to raise awareness about the importance of providing every child with access to high-quality music programs and celebrate the incredible value they provide.
The Guilderland Central School District believes music is integral to achieving its mission and crucial in preparing each and every student to meet the challenges and opportunities of their future. Throughout the month, students across the district have showcased their talents through various performances and events, demonstrating the strength and impact of the district’s music curriculum. Below are highlights of the remarkable achievements of our talented music students during “Music in our Schools Month.”
Several music groups perform at the Empire State Plaza for “Music in our Schools Month”
The GHS Jazz Ensemble and Chamber Choir took the stage at the Empire State Plaza on Friday, March 14 to celebrate “Music in our Schools Month” as part of the New York State School Music Association’s (NYSSMA) annual advocacy event. Each year, NYSSMA organizes performances throughout the month to promote the importance of music education and garner support within the state government. The Farnsworth Middle School seventh grade chorus, Select Band and Jazz Band also participated in the month-long celebration, performing on March 10 and 20 respectively.
LES Chorus performs at Naturalization Ceremony
On Friday, March 7, the Lynnwood Elementary Chorus had the honor of performing at the Naturalization Ceremony held at the United States Courthouse in downtown Albany. Under the direction of music teacher Michelle Janston, the fourth and fifth grade students offered harmonious melodies that perfectly complemented the significance of the event, where over 30 individuals officially became U.S. citizens. Students also gained valuable insight into the government by touring the courthouse and asking questions about the naturalization ceremony. Meeting the Honorable U.S. District Judge Daniel J. Stewart further enriched their experience, making the day an exciting and memorable occasion for all.
GHS brass quintet selected to perform at 41st Annual Young Musicians Concert
Five Guilderland High School students have earned the prestigious honor of performing at the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center’s 41st Annual Young Musicians Concert as part. The brass quintet comprised of YoonSoo (Sam) Woo on trumpet, Toby Weiss on trumpet, Anthony Padula on French horn, Brendon Cao on trombone, and Ian Dunn on tuba, regularly rehearse together in a GHS lesson group. After two rigorous rounds of auditions, this exceptional ensemble secured their spot to showcase their talent at the renowned Alice Tully Hall in Lincoln Center on Thursday, May 8 at 11 a.m. Congratulations to the students and their teacher, John Fatuzzo, on this remarkable accomplishment!
Music conductor and GCSD alumna Lidiya Yankovskaya visits GHS
Internationally renowned conductor and Guilderland alumna Lidiya Yankovskaya returned to her alma mater on Friday, March 7 to work with current GHS students in the concert and symphony orchestras. Student musicians enjoyed the incredible opportunity to learn from one of the industry’s top professionals and discover how they could carve a similar path if they pursue a music career.
GHS senior wins first ESYO-SPAC composition contest
Congratulations to GHS senior Siyi Guo on her award-winning original composition, “Rose-colored Glasses and Hatred-filled Eyes.” Guo’s piece was selected as part of the first student composition contest hosted by the Empire State Youth Orchestra (ESYO) and Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC). She’ll perform her acclaimed work at the Festival of Young Artists on Sunday, June 1.
Seven GCSD students perform at NYSBDA’s Annual Symposium
Seven GCSD students delivered standout performances at the New York State Band Directors Association’s (NYSBDA) Annual Symposium in Syracuse from March 7-9. These talented young musicians were selected to showcase their skills as part of the middle school and high school statewide honor bands – a remarkable accomplishment. Congratulations to FMS students Andrew Padula, Emma Padula, Kriti Siddi, Aleesa Sikkander and Daniel Woo, as well as GHS students Adam Hawrylchak and Anthony Padula.
