From November 30 to December 3, Jaymin Ding ’25, Samantha Lee ’25, and Alexander Rivas ‘25 traveled to Rochester, NY, to participate in the New York All-State Symphonic Band and Orchestra, hosted by the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA.) The rehearsals and performances took place at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester. The final performance was held in Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre, the school’s largest performance venue.

NYSSMA All-State ensembles connect the most accomplished high school musicians from across New York State to play together and work with renowned guest conductors. Students are selected based on their outstanding scores at the NYSSMA Solo Festival in the spring, which consists of playing scales, performing a solo piece, and sight reading. Only students who receive 99% or 100% on the audition are considered for All-State. 

In addition, 11 RCDS students earned places in the Westchester County Area All-State Ensembles. They were selected based on their performances of distinction at last spring's Solo Festival.

Westchester County Area All-State Ensembles
Jaymin Ding ’25, clarinet
Ronald Feng ’24, cello
Taeko Fueno ’25, violin
Rosie Isiyel ’25, soprano
Samantha Lee ’25, viola
Xindi Liu ’26, clarinet
Alexander Rivas ’25, trumpet
Colette Sawyer ’25, oboe
Vreeland Tuncer ’26, alto
Casey Wu ’24, double  bass
Jordan Zhao ’24, cello

Congratulations to these dedicated musicians!