Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins and New York State Senator Shelley B. Mayer recognized 67 students from 30 secondary schools located throughout every region of Westchester County who were selected to be part of this year’s prestigious New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) All-State ensembles. Thousands of students audition for All-State each year, but only the most accomplished that can demonstrate superior technical skill, musicianship and artistry—are chosen by NYSMMA each year.
Mayer said: “I am proud to recognize the incredible talent and dedication of the Westchester High School students who have been selected to be part of this year’s New York State School Music Association ensembles. Music is an essential part of our lives, and musical education encourages creativity, offers our youth an expressive outlet, allows them to connect with others who share their passion, and fosters the confidence to help them excel in other areas. Thank you to the school music directors, teachers, and parents who encourage the children to pursue their music dreams. Congratulations to NYSMMA President Edmund Chiarello and to all the talented musicians on this tremendous achievement! Brava!”
Jenkins said: “Today we celebrate not just talent, but the countless hours of hard work, dedication and passion these students have poured into their craft. Their achievements reflect the strength of music education in Westchester and the power of the arts to enrich our communities. Westchester remains deeply committed to creating opportunities like this for all our students to thrive. However minor or major an impact – behind every student’s success is also a teacher, a parent, a mentor, or a friend whose support has helped make this moment possible.”
NYSSMA President Edmund Chiarello said: “Music education fosters creativity and promotes cultural connections. Self-discipline, social skills, communication skills, self-concept, cooperative talents and the creative mind –are all nurtured through music participation. Congratulations to these young musicians for their All-State participation, achieving the most prestigious level of recognition from the New York State School Music Association.”
This year’s Westchester NYSSMA student honorees will join their peers from across the state for a prestigious series of All-State concerts, forging new friendships, growing their talents and inspiring future generations of musicians. They will perform in ensemble or talent showcases that range from: Vocal Jazz, String Orchestra, Songwriting, Electronic Music, Young Composers, Treble Chorus, Symphony Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, Piano, Mixed Chorus and Symphonic Band.
Valhalla Department Lead Music Teacher Dr. Anthony Maceli said: “Being selected for a NYSSMA All-State ensemble is truly a milestone for young musicians – it’s one of the highest distinctions in student musicianship in New York State. It opens doors to incredible educational and performance opportunities, allowing students to rehearse intensively with world-renowned conductors and to challenge themselves further through performance. I’m thankful for this opportunity created by County Executive Ken Jenkins and State Senator Shelley Mayer to bring together all these honorees, their families, teachers, school administrators and local NYSSMA leaders to celebrate this moment of achievement – as well as the amazing future that lies ahead for these Westchester students.”
The Westchester County recognition event underscores the community’s continued commitment to supporting the arts and celebrating excellence in education.
