Congratulations go out to Henry Dong, Kiki Protopsaltis and Michael Lombardi, who were chosen as All-State Musicians. The All-State Music Festival is held every year in Rochester, NY to highlight the extraordinary student musicians in the state. Each spring, skilled students learn a level 6 NYSSMA solo, hire an accompanist and perform before a judge. If they score high enough (usually a 100%), they are considered for one of the All-State ensembles. Over the summer a selection committee, compares score sheets and chooses students to participate in the All-State Festival. These students are considered the best musicians in NY state.
Henry Dong is a junior member of the GHS Music Department. He began his trombone journey in the 4th Grade Band at GIS under director Mr. Greene, whom he now performs with in the Maybrook Wind Ensemble. Henry plays trombone in Goshen High School’s Symphonic and Stage Bands and he has performed in a number of All-County and Area All-State festivals as well. His favorite band memory is when he played “Old Town Road” with the Junior High All-County Band his freshman year. Not only will Henry be playing in this year’s All-State Orchestra, he is also looking forward to performing with the Honors Performance Series Symphony Orchestra in Carnegie Hall in February. Henry would like to thank his family, friends and teachers for their help and guidance as he continues to follow his passion for playing music.
Kiki Protopsaltis is a senior member of the GHS Music Department. She began playing the upright bass in the East Greenwich Central School District in Rhode Island when she was in 4th grade. Kiki performs on upright bass in the Goshen High School Chamber Orchestra and Stage Band. She is also a percussionist in the Symphonic Band and sings soprano in the Treble Choir. Kiki is excited to be participating in this year’s All-State Symphony Orchestra and would like to thank her family and her teachers for helping and supporting her throughout her journey. After graduation Kiki plans to major in Music Education and can’t wait to spread the joy of music to her own students.
Michael Lombardi’s passion for the trumpet started at the age of 7 years old. Throughout his years in Goshen, he has played his trumpet in various Jazz, Stage, Concert, Symphonic and All-County Bands & Orchestras. His love of playing music crosses over from in school to out in the community. You will often find Michael playing patriotic songs at events such as Flags for Heroes, Great American Weekends, Memorial Day and Nursing Homes. He considers it an honor and civic duty to play the Nation’s Anthem and Taps, and feels they represent the traditions and all that is great within our country. As an Eagle Scout, Michael has been a long standing official Bugler for his Boy Scout Troop 62, playing at Court of Honors and Eagle Ceremonies. Some recent memorable highlights for Michael were participating as lead trumpet in the NYSBDA Honors Jazz Concert in March and playing at the opening of the Orange County Legislative Meeting for the 21 Districts in May. Michael is excited to be part of the All-State Band in his senior year. He would like to extend a special thanks to his family and the music educators, Ellen Dickinson, Kimberly Longo, John Castleman, Jim Quinlan, Kristen Calohan and Benny Matalucci who have all been instrumental in supporting his music. Michael looks forward to continuing to play his trumpet and serve his community with his music well into the future.