Six distinguished student-musicians from Sachem High Schools North and East were selected to showcase their musical mastery during the 2018 New York State School Music Association’s All-State festival at the Rochester Convention Center in Rochester, New York, from Nov. 29 to Dec. 2. 

From High School East, students Timothy Demott and Ralf Jean-Francois will perform with the mixed chorus, while Rachel Sauer will perform with the symphonic band. 

From High School North, students Morgan Tiller and Joseph Albano have been selected for the mixed chorus and Sofia Sangiorgio for the symphonic band. 

“Selection for the All-State performing groups is a rare honor earned by only the most talented, dedicated and hardworking students,” said David Jaklitsch, the chairperson for secondary music. “These amazing young musicians have worked at the highest possible level for many years and under many teachers, studying both in and out of school to attain this accomplishment. We are all very proud to have these exceptional students represent Sachem as some of the best in all of New York State.”

The selection process for an All-State musician is rigorous and includes teacher recommendations, audition scores at the NYSSMA solo evaluation festival during the prior spring and participation in other performing organizations.