Student Musicians Receive Honors
Westfield Public Schools
Westfield High School 11th grader Kevin Chen was selected to perform with the All-State Orchestra later this year. Chen, who plays the viola, joined other talented student musicians from around New Jersey in rigorous auditions on March 19 that included all 12 major scales, 3 minor scales, and excerpts from Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Suite No. 2 in D Minor.”
Additionally, the WHS Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band both received Gold Ratings at the Region II State Concert Band Festival during the week of March 21. “This is just the 2nd time in school history that the Symphonic Band has received a Gold rating and they were the highest scoring Division II ensemble at the event,” says WHS band director Christopher Vitale.
Vitale says this is the 9th consecutive Gold rating by the Wind Ensemble, who finished 3rd overall and also received an invitation to the State Band Gala to be held on May 1.
“The Gala event features the top 12 scoring bands from across the entire state and this is our 3rd invitation in school history,” Vitale adds.
Photos by Westfield Public Schools
