Irvington Students Named To All-State Festival Ensemble

IRVINGTON, NY — Irvington High School students Richard Ackerman and Chaeil (Robert) Yun have been selected to play viola at the All-State Festival during the New York State School Music Association’s Winter Conference in December. Debra McCumber, high school band director and music department chair, said it was a prestigious honor.

“Robert and Richard were in competition with students from all over New York State and were selected based on their perfect scores and advanced skills shown at the NYSSMA solo festival this past spring,” she said.

Ackerman and Yun have been playing the viola and participating in the district’s string program since fourth grade. During their musical careers, they’ve been selected to participate in several Area All-State and All-County music ensembles.

“These two fine young men have beautiful tone quality, stellar technique and embody true musicianship,” McCumber said. “They are extremely hard workers and are dedicated to their craft. They practice at least one to two hours every day to continue to grow as musicians. We are so very proud of them and wish them both the best of luck.”

The concert will be held in Rochester from Dec. 5 to Dec. 8.