By Katie Vasquez
Some of the top student musicians from across New York City performed at the High School Honors Music Festival, showcasing talent, dedication and collaboration.
Among the performers were 23 students from Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School. For senior Myles Bryant, the experience left a lasting impression.
“It was amazing to see all those band people come together to a common goal, to do something great and spectacular,” Bryant said.
Fellow senior Josiah Celius credited consistent practice and strong support from the school for helping them stand out.
“Many of my friends were saying how we felt like we were some of the most skilled or most prepared people there,” Celius said.
For junior Adam Delinois, participating in the festival was especially meaningful, considering he only began playing a few years ago.
“Actually, my first day coming to school my freshman year, I came down to the band room and asked one of the teachers if I can join their band. So they put me on trombone,” Delinois said. “Originally I didn’t want to, but the more I kept playing it, the more I started to enjoy it.”
Participation in the festival has become an annual tradition for the Catholic high school. It is also a point of pride for faculty, especially since the school does not have an established performing arts program.
“The fact that Bishop Loughlin did get so many students involved, I think that’s an amazing thing and a testament to all of us in the music department,” said Everett Wilson, chair of the music and visual arts department.
Students said the experience was both inspiring and rewarding.
“It was honestly really refreshing to just be surrounded by a whole bunch of kids who had a common goal and wanted to do well in that program,” said junior Mercedez McCray.
Students and staff alike say the performance is one they will cherish for years to come.