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NYSSMA Winter Conference Highlights
Student Standout Performances Take Center Stage at the NYSSMA Winter Conference

Student musicians from Croton-Harmon High School took the spotlight at the New York State School Music Association Winter Conference, a statewide celebration of excellence in music education held this December in Rochester, NY.

CHHS senior and saxophonist Cormac Taylor earned a featured seat in the NYSSMA All-State Jazz Band, performing in the December concert after achieving one of the most competitive distinctions for student musicians in New York State. Acceptance into All-State requires a perfect score on a Level VI solo, the highest and most challenging performance level.

Sophomore Zeki Eren was selected as one of only ten students statewide to present an original composition at the 2025 NYSSMA Young Composer Honors Concert. His piece, Sunshower, written for cello, violin, and piano, was performed with Zeki on cello alongside student musicians from SUNY Fredonia.

Tiger pride was on full display throughout the conference, with music educators Ms. O’Brien and Ms. Zantay supporting their students throughout rehearsals, performances, and professional learning opportunities.

“Performing in the New York All-State Jazz Band at the NYSSMA Winter Conference is a significant achievement for any student,” said Ms. Zantay. “Mac worked hard to earn his place, and it was wonderful to see him perform alongside students from across the state at such a high level. The musicianship on stage was mature beyond their years. It was a defining moment for an educator.”

Ms. O’Brien described the experience as transformative for the young composer. Over the course of the weekend-long conference, Zeki participated in composer workshops, including composition critiques with student musicians and sessions led by composers-in-residence from SUNY Fredonia.

“The concert itself was an especially exciting highlight,” said Ms. O’Brien. “Hearing Zeki perform Sunshower alongside SUNY Fredonia students was a powerful and affirming moment for him as a young composer. I couldn’t possibly be more proud of Zeki and this truly momentous accomplishment.”