The sixth grade band from Saw Mill Road Elementary School performed at the New York State School Music Association’s Majors festival at Hofstra University on May 22. The group earned a silver rating from a panel of judges. 

Band director Chris D’Orio said this is the first time that Saw Mill’s sixth grade band has participated in this event since 2018. The Majors festival gives student ensembles a chance to play for and receive feedback from experienced musicians. A silver rating represents that students have demonstrated an excellent level of technical and artistic skill in all of the evaluation categories.  

The band performed three songs. Two of the selections, “Enchanted Wizard” and “Terracotta,” came from the NYSSMA manual. For the band’s free choice, they played the “Valor March.” Students practiced during several before-school rehearsals in the weeks leading up to the festival.   

“It’s a really talented group of musicians,” Mr. D’Orio said. “They play really well and this was another performance opportunity. I’m so very proud of their hard work and efforts in band over the past three years, which paid off with a successful performance at the NYSSMA Majors festival.” 

Added Principal Jeffrey Rosof, “This is a wonderful recognition of our musicians’ efforts. Kudos to Mr. D’Orio for leading the way.” 

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Date Added: 5/23/2024