It all started with an impromptu performance at Walden Pond. Or, more accurately, it started when Herndon High School senior Aimee Toner was still small enough to require a C flute with a curved head joint. On Saturday, May 20, Ms. Toner capped off six years of participation in the Fairfax County Band Directors’ Association's Solo Competition with a first place finish. She played Sonata Appassionata—a flute solo she practiced in its entirety at the site of Thoreau’s cabin on a family trip in August.
“I chose Sonata Appassionata by Sigfrid Karg-Elert because it was my primary college audition piece. It was also unaccompanied, and displays a broad range of dynamics, moods, tempos, and technique,” Toner said.
She has competed in the competition five times before, in the sixth, seventh, eighth, tenth, and eleventh grades. In 2014, she placed third with another piece, Charles Griffes’ Poem.
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“This competition has reminded me of the high level of other musicians and has encouraged me to work harder. I've always prepared and aimed to perform my best for each of my six performances.”
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Over sixty-five students participated in Saturday’s competition in the elementary, middle, and high school divisions. Herndon band director Kathleen Jacoby reflected on the quality of the Fairfax County music program evident in the pool of musicians.
“Fairfax County has one of the most incredible music programs nationwide. The opportunities for our students rival many colleges. Because of this, we have an incredible wealth of virtuosity in our music students. Aimee’s success speaks volumes to her talent considering the stiff competition she was up against.”
Toner herself has nothing but praise for the musical training and opportunities she has received in Fairfax County and the Herndon Pyramid.
“I've always looked up to my peers that have succeeded in this competition, and I am so honored to have been recognized in the same competition that they have been in. I am incredibly lucky to be a member of a Fairfax County music program. Its teachers are wonderful.”
In the end, she is grateful for the recognition and the opportunity to express herself with Appassionata like she did that afternoon in the Walden woods.
“I’ve performed this piece in some pretty cool places.”
Thoreau would probably approve.
