This past weekend an New Rochelle High School, 15 students from Hendrick Hudson participated in the state-wide Area All-State performance in band, orchestra, choral, and symphony concerts. Each student achieved top scores in New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) evaluations in their respective disciplines.

The commitment for Area All-State performers consists of two weekday rehearsals from 2:15 – 9:00PM and a final two-hour rehearsal before each ensemble’s concert. Around 600 student musicians were engaged in these rehearsals throughout the month of October. 

Several Hendrick Hudson performers were chosen as soloists; Nava Minichino and Alexandra Numeroff had solos during the Mixed Chorus performance, and Nikko Bianchi played an improv violin solo during the String Orchestra’s performance of “Skylife” by David Balakrishnan. 

Three-time performer Nava Minichino reflects that “this year was nothing short of amazing. Getting to experience each conductor’s style and music preferences was eye-opening. Being chosen to be a soloist was a great opportunity.”

Choral performer and Hen Hud Senior Alec Elkin stated, “This year’s Area All-State was fast-paced but incredibly fun and rewarding.” Elkin explained that the rigor of the music exceeds the typical arrangements given in school and requires dedication outside of the classroom to learn.

Hendrick Hudson’s Orchestra teacher, Mrs. Morabito, served on the board for this year’s production, attending each rehearsal with the students. “Area All-State was a fantastic opportunity for our students to collaborate with their musical peers from all over the country,” Morabito explains. “It was beautiful to watch the student transformation throughout the rehearsals and I truly believe this was an experience that none of them will forget.”

Echoing the same sentiments was Simon Eichenholtz, Hendrick Hudson’s sole representative in the Band ensemble. Playing the bassoon, he noted “playing in the Area-All State Band the past few years has been an incredibly fun and rewarding experience. I was able to make new friends, learn new things, and keep music an important and integral part of my life”

November 2nd and 3rd saw the conclusion of this year’s Area All State, and the Hendrick Hudson Music Department looks forward to next year’s event and the students that will represent the school’s music education program in one of the most accomplished and distinguished ensembles.

The 15 students selected include:

• Nikko Bianchi, Mia Goodenow, and Castalia Litos in String Orchestra
• Sophia Jimdar in Symphony
• Simon Eichenholtz in Band
• Aydan Akhtar, Alec Elkin, Gianna Faulkner, Nava Minichino, Alexandra Numeroff, Kayla Potuzak, Aarti Rajasekar, Henry Ridder, Morgan Savva, and Addison Valentino in Mixed Chorus