2 Ossining Students Earn Prestigious NYSSMA All-State Honors

Two Ossining High School students have been selected to perform at the 2026 New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) All-State Conference in Rochester this December 3 – 6.

Michael Mutlu, a violinist, and Teddy Aiello, who plays double bass, were selected to perform with the All-State Symphony Orchestra.

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"Congratulations to Michael, Teddy, and the educators who have supported and encouraged them along the way," said Ossining Schools' Director of Cultural Arts Kate Mathews. "These are the first two orchestra students from Ossining to be selected for this highly competitive ensemble, and we couldn't be prouder!"

Ms. Mathews praised the students' dedication and thanked Ossining High School Orchestra teacher Nick Feigenbaum for his pivotal guidance. His targeted coaching in perfecting their Level VI solos, scales and sight-reading was essential in preparing Michael and Teddy to perform at this elite level.

Selection for a NYSSMA All-State ensemble is highly competitive. More than 6,500 sophomores and juniors across New York typically prepare Level VI solos for All-State evaluations, with about 825 students ultimately selected for Conference All-State ensembles.

While the conductors have not been named yet, NYSSMA traditionally brings in nationally renowned collegiate directors. The students will prepare masterwork-level symphonic repertoire ahead of the December conference.