Outstanding musicians earn opportunities

Posted byknightlifeobPosted inNews, UncategorizedTags:, , , , , , , , ,
Christian Deserto performs the tuba during halftime at a home football game.

BY KATELYN BUCHALTER
Editor in Chief
          On November 24, five students, including Stephen Franzese, Andrew Houlgin, Christian Deserto, Sophia Pavon, and Mary Field participated in a performance with the TCNJ Honors Wind Ensemble and Honors Jazz band.

          The performance provided numerous enticing experiences for participants. “When I first found out that I was selected, I felt really excited as I was given the opportunity to try something new,” said Field, a senior who participated in the Jazz band.

Members of the TCNJ Honors Wind Ensemble and Honors Jazz Band pose for a picture with the 5 selected students from the OBHS band.

          Some students had the chance to participate with TCNJ for the second time. “I was excited for the opportunity to play in the TCNJ wind ensemble for a second year,” said wind ensemble member Sophia Pavon. “I love their campus and music program, and it was a beneficial experience to be able to return for a second year.”

          Participants had time to prepare and practice before the final performance. “I prepared for the performance by practicing both at home and with the other students in the TCNJ jazz band,” voiced Field.

Mary Field and Sophia Pavon play the french horn during the Winter Band concert.

          With so many achievements acquired by band members, a particular student, Stephen Franzese, made himself stand out through a selection for First Chair Wind Ensemble in the CJMEA High School Region Band and First Chair Symphonic Band in the NJMEA All-State Band. “I worked on a solo for about a year, and, in December, I went to Edison High School and auditioned for a spot and received first chair in the advanced Wind Ensemble,” said Franzese.

          The audition for both bands included a blind audition. “The audition is in a classroom,” added Franzese. “In the audition the three judges had their backs facing me as I played.”

Old Bridge students stand for a bow, along with the TCNJ Honors Wind Ensemble and Honors Jazz band.

          Franzese performed with the CJMEA High School Region Band on January 11. “It was really exciting for me as I played with the top musicians in central Jersey. We had a really strong performance,” expressed Franzese.

          Franzese will perform on February 22 in Atlantic City for the All-State conference.

Posted on 1/28/25

Photos provided by Olivia Van Deurson, Sophia Pavone, Lors Photography, and TCNJ