Mepham Student Composer Honored by School District

At the Oct. 6 Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District Board of Education meeting, Immanuel Mellis was recognized for being named a 2016 Young Composer by the New York State School Music Association.

“Immanuel Mellis is a wonderful young man and student who is mature beyond his years,” said Board President Janet Goller during his introduction. “His qualities of self-sufficiency and independence will translate beautifully to his post-secondary school of choice, which currently includes options such as Julliard, Northeastern University, and Oberlin College & Conservatory. Immanuel has applied a confident sense-of-self to every task and activity that he engages in, setting goals and achieving each and every one of them.”

Fulfilling a full, rigorous academic schedule all four years of high school, Mellis has always applied himself wholeheartedly to his academic commitments. He has always made sure to take advantage of the countless elective, college, honors and AP level opportunities available at Mepham High School.

Additionally, Mellis is completing science research in Music Conceptualization and investigating a socio-psychological approach to music. This research focused on how human beings cognitively interpret music rhythms.

“Immanuel is an incredible, multi-talented musician and composer,” said Goller. “As the viola section leader in the Mepham String Ensemble, he is one of its brightest stars. His latest composition earned him a spot to have his piece performed at the NYSSMA All-State Conference in December. This is a huge honor, as only 14 students were selected from the state. He will be composing and conducting a piece for the Mepham String Ensemble this year.”