Riverhead High School’s honor music students returned from Philadelphia with more than memories of a class trip — they came home with some of the top honors awarded at the Music in the Parks festival earlier this month.
The school’s wind ensemble, jazz ensemble, chamber orchestra and chamber choir all earned superior ratings at the regional competition, with the wind ensemble and jazz ensemble each also being named best overall in their categories.
The wind ensemble captured first place and Best Overall Concert Band, while the jazz ensemble earned first place and Best Overall Jazz Ensemble honors. The chamber orchestra also took first place with a superior rating, and the chamber choir earned second place with a superior rating.
Two Riverhead students also received individual recognition for their performances. Senior Christian Seymour was named Best Overall Jazz Soloist and junior Jarell Gilliam earned Best Overall Vocalist honors.
“This trip was an extraordinary experience for all involved, one that showcased the dedication, talent and hard work of our student-musicians,” said jazz ensemble director Crystal Crespo.
Beyond the competition, students spent time exploring Philadelphia’s historic sites and music culture and toured Temple University’s music program, where they learned about collegiate-level performance and study opportunities.
Courtesy photo: Leslie Kwasna.
Courtesy photo: Leslie Kwasna
Courtesy photo: Leslie Kwasna
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