Bellport High School student-musicians Jack Burkhardt (Bb clarinet) and Taylor Kelly (French horn) were selected to participate in the New York State School Music Association Virtual All-State Festival for symphonic band, being held virtually on Dec. 3-5. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, NYSSMA will not be able to host these students to rehearse and perform at the Winter Conference in Rochester at the renowned Eastman Theater of the Eastman School of Music.

The duo was nominated and selected based on scores they received at the NYSSMA Solo and Ensemble Festival during the 2018-2019 school year. Director of Music Victoria Hartman explained that being selected is a remarkable achievement in that 6,500 students statewide auditioned for a position in the All-State Music Festival. Performing ensembles include the All-State symphonic band, wind ensemble, mixed chorus, treble choir, symphony orchestra, and instrumental and vocal jazz ensemble. Fifteen Bellport High School students auditioned for All-State in the spring 2018.

The District congratulates Jack and Taylor on this outstanding achievement and extends best wishes for success during the NYSSMA Virtual All-State Festival.