Edina Seniors End High School on a High Note

As the school year comes to a close, EHS seniors Connor Sacks and Jon Mathison will definitely go forth on a high note. 

The duo are currently participating in 's May Term program, which allows qualifying seniors the chance to spend two weeks partaking in a variety of internships and projects.

For their project, Sacks and Mathison are conducting an independent music study, which will culminate into a classical and jazz recital showcasing the two genres. The recital will feature Connor on both the trumpet and piccolo trumpet, while Jon will play his alto-saxophone.

"What's really awesome about this project is that we can spend a lot more time focusing on what we actually love to do, which is play music," Sacks said. "We're able to take time to play, practice and really appreciate all of the steps that go into mastering a work of music."

Mathison agreed, saying it was nice to spend the bulk of his days focused on music.

"We didn't (normally) have the time to dedicate hours of playing and creating music, but now we do," he said.

In addition to other meritorious awards, both Sacks and Mathison have earned Best in Sight awards in this year's Minnesota State High School League Solo and Ensemble Contest. Sacks was also awarded the Louis Armstrong Jazz Award this spring.

Both EHS seniors plan to continue playing music well into college and perhaps further in life. Connor will be attending the University of Nebraska at Lincoln this fall, while Jon will be attending Macalester College in St. Paul. 

The recital will take place from 5-6:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 31, at the Edina Performing Arts Center. Admission is free.

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