Fulton’s orchestra and band students presented their talents to judges at Mexico Middle School for the annual NYSSMA Solo Festival during the weekend of May 4. The grade levels ranged all the way from 4th grade to 12th grade, with much music talent just waiting to be expressed.

Students have the option of doing either a trio, duet, or solo. The levels of the songs range from level 1 to level 6. Soloists have to play a certain number of scales based on the level of song they are playing and have to sight-read a short piece of music. Luckily, those in duets or trios can forego the scale and sight-reading.

If students score a high enough score on a level 6 they can attend All-State Orchestra or Band. They will not get the results back until August. Many of the students also had an accompanist on the piano to play with them when auditioning for scholarships.

Senior Kelly Caza has been going to SoloFest for the last four years and views it as a great educational experience to learn new music and receive feedback from other people in ways that she can improve.

Senior Hayley Vann has been going to SoloFest since 8th grade and performed a duet with Caza this past weekend. She said that even though it was a “nerve-racking experience” it was a great opportunity to perform in front of experienced judges and learn new ways to improve her skills.

Orchestra teacher Mrs. Rodgers said she was extremely proud of how well all of her students performed and overall it was an amazing, music-filled weekend.