TWO RHS STUDENTS MAKE THE NYSSSA CUT

(May 28, 2009) “Experience the joy and artistry of singing in an ensemble of other passionate and talented singers, the thrill of performing for an audience, and the unifying power of choral music-making at the highest level under the care and guidance of a superb artistic faculty during four weeks of intensive musical immersion at the School of Choral Studies. Students will perform with the NYSSSSA Chorus in Concert Halls at the Rockefeller Center for the Arts at SUNY-Fredonia and in the Amphitheater at the famous Chautauqua Institution,” states the pamphlet for the NY State Summer School of the Arts (NYSSSA).

Two high school students from Riverhead High School, Katie Blasl and Cindy Mujo, will be able to experience this “joy and artistry of singing in an ensemble of other passionate and talented singers” for themselves this summer. Both Katie and Cindy have been accepted into the NYSSSA School of Choral Studies program. They will be attending the Choral Studies program at SUNY-Fredonia from July 5 through August 5, 2009. Admission to these programs is very competitive. More than 1,000 students auditioned for the choral program statewide, but only 70 students were accepted into the program.

In addition to singing in this exciting chorus, the two girls will be involved in choral, solo vocal, and theory studies as well as a variety of cultural activities, including faculty and peer recitals, opera and theater performances at the Chautauqua Institution, as well as master classes and workshops by guest artists.

RHS senior Heather Kopp attended the NYSSSA Choral Studies program at SUNY-Fredonia last summer. “I had a great time,” she attested. “I loved the whole experience. I made so many great friends from all over the state that I still stay in touch with.” Heather plans to continue her music studies next fall at Westminster Music College and will be the music director for "Guys and Dolls" at the North Fork Community Theater over the summer.

Like Heather, both Katie and Cindy plan to continue their studies in music after high school.

NYSSSA also has programs in orchestral studies, ballet, dance, jazz, theater and media and visual arts. The entire cost is $1,500, but tuition assistance is available according to individual need. For more information go to www.emsc.nysed.gov/nysssa/ or email: myssssa@mail.nysed.gov.

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