​ Ossining High School Students Achieve Musical Excellence

Ossining High School is proud to announce the remarkable achievements of its outstanding students in the world of music. Five talented musicians from Ossining High School have been accepted into the highly competitive Area All State Band, showcasing their exceptional musical prowess. In addition, two students have earned coveted spots as Alternates for New York's All State Orchestra and All State Jazz Band, marking a tremendous honor for their dedication and skill.

The Area All State Band, composed of top-tier high school musicians from the region, will feature a stellar representation from Ossining High School. The five students selected for this prestigious ensemble are Christopher Grant (French Horn), Juno Flower (Timpani), Jonathan Kang (Trumpet), Maya Offen (Clarinet), and Luke Zebelman (Tenor Sax). They will be captivating audiences with their exceptional talents on November 4th, 2023, at New Rochelle High School.

"Our music and cultural arts program has always been a dynamic force, nurturing the artistic spirits of our students and fostering an environment of creativity and excellence," said Kate Mathews, Director of Cultural Arts at Ossining High School. "Being accepted into the Area All State Band demonstrates the exceptional opportunities we provide to our young musicians, enabling them to reach new heights and showcase their immense talent. They are not only representing OHS but also the entire community, and we couldn't be prouder of their achievements," she continued.

Additionally, Ossining High School students Candance Yu and Luke Zebelman have been selected as Alternates for New York's All State Orchestra and All State Jazz Band, respectively. This prestigious recognition is a testament to their exceptional musical abilities, as they had to score between 99% and 100% on a level 6 New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) solo to be considered for these highly selective ensembles.

Mr. Rodrigo Vargas, band director at Ossining High School, has played a pivotal role in nurturing the exceptional talent of these young musicians. He has been instrumental in helping students prepare their NYSSMA solos, instilling in them the discipline and skill required to achieve such high scores. It is through his tireless efforts and commitment that these students have not only earned recognition in the Area All State Band but also secured coveted spots as Alternates for New York's All State Orchestra and All State Jazz Band. Mr. Vargas's influence extends beyond the classroom, leaving a lasting impact on the lives and musical careers of his students, who continue to excel under his guidance.

Interim Superintendent Mary Fox-Alter also commended the students for their achievements, saying "Our students have shown extraordinary dedication to their craft, and these accomplishments affirm their talent and hard work. We are thrilled to see our students excelling at such a high level in the world of music, and we congratulate them on these well-deserved honors."

Ossining High School's Cultural Arts Department is committed to nurturing an environment that fosters lifelong participation in the cultural arts. The program places a strong emphasis on achieving high artistic standards, engaging students in critical thinking, and inspiring the entire community of learners to unlock their full cognitive and expressive potential through meaningful artistic experiences.