Young Milford Musicians Represent Town At Major Music Festival

MILFORD — Students from both of the town's high schools showcased their musical talents recently, with both singers and musicians taking part in a statewide musical extravaganza.

According to the Milford School System today, a total of 15 student musicians at Jonathan Law and Joseph A. Foran high schools represented the district at last month's CT All-State Music Festival, an annual program conducted by the Connecticut Music Educators Association (CMEA).

The three-day festival was held in April at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford with more than 550 top student musicians invited to perform.

Amy Perras, instruction supervisor for music in the district, said the Milford contingent did the district proud.

“Milford Public Schools is so proud of these young musicians and their accomplishments. The opportunity for Milford to be represented with so many talented musicians at the Connecticut All State Festival is a direct reflection of the amazing team of music educators we have here in Milford as well as the commitment Milford Public Schools has made to the arts," she said. "These students represent our finest musicians and we thank them for their commitment and dedication to music. "

Both vocalists and instrumental music participants took part.

The student vocalist from Foran was Olivia Salai, who sang alto. The student vocalists from Jonathan Law were Angela Chu (alto), Jasper Chu (tenor), Kalli Kinsman (alto), Marisa Laviano (alto), Ikeoluwatomiwa Opayemi (alto), Eric Relucio (tenor), Rhyza Reyes (alto), Shruti Simhadri (soprano), Hannah Sullivan (alto) and Emma Vaccino (alto).

Instrumental participants from Foran included Noah Held (bass clarinet) and Ryan Purviance (string bass). Participants from Jonathan Law included Oliver Harrigan (clarinet) and Christopher Rickard (euphonium).

According to Milford school officials, students were selected through a rigorous audition process held earlier in the year during the CMEA’s regional conventions in February.

The festival concluded with a student concert, performed for their families. Opayemi, a sophomore from Jonathan Law, was awarded a solo in the concert.

Milford's high school principals said they were excited for their local young musicians.

“I am so proud of all of our students who earned the prestigious honor of participating in the All-State Music Festival. While their skill and talent is obvious, it's their passion, dedication, and commitment to their craft that is most impressive. Their love of music has such a positive impact on their lives and our entire school community,” said Max Berkowitz, principal of Joseph A. Foran High School.

Jonathan Law High School Principal Bryan Darcy agreed. “I want to congratulate all the students who participated. They have all worked extremely hard. Their passion for music education inspires all of us,” he said.