FSYO is proud to recognize our 61st season of graduating seniors.
Kiara Astacio
Bass, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 1
College: Florida Southern College
Major: Music Education
Kiara Astacio is a senior at Osceola County School for the Arts where she is principal bassist in both the Symphony and Chamber orchestras. Miss Astacio has played with the All County Orchestra for six years and was seated principal bassist in 2016 and 2018. She was also Assistant Principal in the All-State Honors Orchestra in 2015 and bassist for the 11th-12th Grade All-State Band earlier this year. Kiara has also performed with the Maitland Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Dr. Mendez, Central Florida Community Arts Symphonic Orchestra under Dr. Alvaro Gomez, and the Osceola Arts Youth Orchestra. Kiara played bass for 8 years and has studied under Mindy Curtis and has worked privately with Professor Melanie Punter at Florida State University. Kiara will continue studying music as a music education major at Florida Southern College. Miss Astacio will study privately with Professor Bleda Elibal and play under the direction of Dr. Kira Omelchenko.
Ethan Avila
Trombone, Philharmonia
Years in FSYO: 2
College: Stetson University
Major: Music
Performance Ethan Christopher Avila was born to Tina and Randy Avila on February 12, 2000 and has a sister, Emma, 15. Ethan is graduating from Spruce Creek High School, Port Orange. Outside of school Ethan enjoys time with his family and close friends, playing trombone, of course, and playing video games. He is also involved in Boy Scouts of America and was recently awarded the highest rank of Eagle Scout. During his middle and high school years he made District All County band 7th12th grade. He also made FBA All-State Band three times; 8th grade Middle School Band, 10th grade Orchestra and 12th Grade Symphonic Band. He has also received all superior ratings for his solos at District Solo and Ensemble as well as receiving 2 superior ratings at State Solo and Ensemble. He truly enjoyed being in FSYO Philharmonia Orchestra for the past two seasons. The highlight was touring with the FSYO Traveling Orchestra to Europe, summer 2017 and looks forward to touring with them on their US East Coast tour Summer 2018. After touring and having some fun, Ethan will be working hard on his Bachelor’s Degree in Music Performance in trombone at Stetson University, Fall 2018. Go Hatters!! Thank you to Mr. David Schmidt. Without his mentorship, this would not be possible. Following Stetson, he plans on getting his Master’s Degree in Music Performance.
Noah Barrios
Saxophone, Jazz
Year in FSYO: 1
College: Florida State University
Major: Jazz Performance
Noah Barrios joined FSYO in his senior year as lead alto saxophone in the jazz orchestra. Noah has valued his time in FSYO for allowing his exposure to new, challenging music and for his ability to play under a great mentor, Jeff Rupert as well as talented peers. As a senior, Noah has assumed a respectable list of achievements, from being a part of the OCPS all-county concert bands and jazz bands all throughout high school, the FMEA all-state concert bands for 3 years, and being a member of the Jazz Band of America in his senior year. Outside of music however, Noah is an ordinary kid, spending his time cramming for AP exams, playing video games, soccer, or ultimate frisbee with friends, and watching any horror movie he can get his hands on. Noah is excited about attending THE Florida State University and majoring in Jazz Studies.
Chris Bernhardt
Tuba, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 1
College: Florida State University
Major: Music
Christopher began playing tuba in the 6th grade. Once he got to high school, he found a love with the instrument and began practicing constantly, with the ultimate goal to play in a Drum Corps. He played with the Impact of Orlando Drum and Bugle corps, and served as their drum major. Throughout his time at Lake Brantley High School, he has played with the Youth Brass Band of Central Florida, the First Baptist of Orlando Orchestra, and the Brass Band of Central Florida; he was also Section Leader at his high school. Christopher will be attending Florida State University in 2018 where he will be majoring in Music and Computer Engineering. He also intends to perform in the Marching Chiefs. His ultimate goal is to play in a professional orchestra or freelance with trombone and tuba, as well as also pursuing a career in computer science. In Christopher’s free time he helps at Tavares High School where he is writing their halftime show
Sam Boss
Bass, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 1
College: Georgia Institute of Technology
Major: Industrial Engineering
Sam Boss has played string bass for eight years, oboe for six, and percussion for four. In her free time, she enjoys running, unicycling, and engaging in political activism. She has performed as the principal oboist and principal bassist in the Brevard All County Orchestras and Bands during her time in high school. In addition, Sam has performed as a bassist and the principal oboist of the Florida All State Bands/Orchestras for multiple years. Sam is very involved in her school’s marching band, the Pride of Mel Hi. She marched three years of drumline and is currently the drum major of the band. Sam intends to pursue Industrial Engineering and continue playing music in the Georgia Tech Marching Band and Symphony Orchestra.
Jenna Chen
Violin, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 3
College: Binghamton
Major: Neuroscience
Jenna started the violin in 2004, when she was four years old, sitting safely tucked in the backseat of the car when her mother asked her, “Jenna, how would you feel about learning the violin?” She agreed to the idea, not having any clue what a violin was at the time. The same thing then happened a few weeks later, but with the subject being piano that time around. She stuck with both violin and piano taking lessons each weekend for fourteen years, on each Saturday and Sunday respectively, and owes everything to both her parents and friends. Jenna can’t thank her parents enough for giving me the opportunity to start and continue both instruments. Her dad works tirelessly, and her mom never skipped out on driving to her lessons, concerts, competitions, and basically wherever she needed to go. Her friends have stuck by her side through all the ups and downs, and it wouldn’t have been possible for her to have gotten to where she is now without them.
Thomas Claus
Trombone, Jazz
Years in FSYO: 1
College: University of North Texas
Major: Jazz Studies
Thomas can’t imagine what his life would be like without music. Growing up in a family of wind musicians meant that he did not get to choose if he wanted to do band, but rather how early he could start. His formal music education began at age two with a program called Kindermusik at preschool, which led to piano lessons and his first wind instrument, a baritone, in 3rd grade. In 5th grade, when his arms were a little longer, he began private trombone lessons with Joey Vascik, which enabled him to audition for the Maitland Middle School Wind Ensemble and earn second chair as a 6th grader.Under the direction of Eric Mendez, Thomas’ jazz ability flourished, allowing him to play all over Central Florida as well as in New York City during the 8th grade. That same year, he made the inaugural All-State Middle School Jazz Band. By the time he finished 8th grade, he already had an extensive appreciation and passion for jazz. This continued throughout high school as the Winter Park High School Jazz Ensemble performed at Disney and various music festivals around Central Florida. Participating as lead trombone in the FSU Tri-State Jazz Band in 11th and 12th grades and attending the UNT Jazz Combo Camp last summer were additional jazz experiences he will never forget. Making All-State and All-County every year were goals he set and attained since his 7th grade year. Participating in All-County Jazz last spring led him to that year’s director, Professor Jeff Rupert. When he heard that the FSYO Jazz Orchestra was starting his senior year under the direction of Professor Rupert, he immediately signed up to audition. Thomas plans to attend UNT as a Jazz Studies major in the fall and can’t wait to begin his journey toward a career in music.
Brandon Connors-Morrison
Flute, Philharmonia
Years in FSYO: 2
College: Stetson University
Major: Music Performance
Brandon Connors-Morrison has always loved music and his passion to play flute is beyond measurable. He has made All-County all four years of his high school career and received Superiors on his solos both at district and state. He also has a passion for composition and has already composed four band pieces, and other individual instrument solos, still continuing to compose new works. Brandon will attend Stetson University where he plans to double major in music performance and composition.
Ariah Deason
Violin, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 7
College: Rollins College
College Major: Violin Performance
Ariah began playing the violin at the age of 5, when she participated in a wonderful Suzuki violin program at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Tx (STELR.) She has participated in the FSYO orchestra for seven years, serving as concertmaster of Overture Strings, assistant concertmaster of Prelude, concertmaster of Philharmonia, and finally principal second and associate concertmaster of the Symphonic Orchestra. Ariah has participated in the Sewanee Summer Music Festival in Tennessee, the Summa Cum Laude International Music Festival in Europe and she plans to travel to New York with the FSYO to perform at Carnegie Hall this upcoming summer. She has participated in many music projects over the years, including playing folk music at the Timucua White House, the Mennello Museum of Art and the Hannibal Square Heritage Center. She has also been a soloist with dance productions and chamber groups in the area. Ariah has been very active donating her time to the FSYO. She has acted as a mentor in the “Sing-Song, String-a-long” program with Mrs. Sarah Morrison, and has attended the Stringmania Summer String Camp for many years before volunteering as a mentor under Dr. Mauricio Cespedes. Ariah has been under the instruction of Professor Joni Roos for the past three years, and plans to continue her violin studies under Mrs Roos at Rollins College. Ariah was very inspired by her travels in Europe with the FSYO and hopes to participate in Rollins’ International studies program and one day travel the world pursuing her favorite passions, quartet music, and photography.
Julie Di Lecce
Violin, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 9
College: Stetson University
Major: Violin Performance
Julie has been in FSYO for the past nine years and enjoys participating in the Symphonic Orchestra, the chamber orchestra, and playing local gigs in trios and quartets. In addition, she has a penchant for aviation and has been preparing to obtain her private pilot’s license. She also enjoys knitting, crocheting, and her pet mini pig Penelope. Julie began taking violin lessons from Jennie Lou Klim at the age of five. After several years under her tutelage, she then began studying with Amy Jevitt and continues with her at present. This year, as she prepared the Bruch Violin Concerto No. 1, in g minor and the Bach Partita No. 3 for college auditions, she recalled fond memories of playing “Mary Had a Little Lamb” at her first recital and thought about the progress made over the past 13 years of study and practice. As she completes her fifth season in the FSYO Symphonic Orchestra, she has also remembered her first season in the Prelude Orchestra and how it inspired and urged her on to become a better player. Good friendships have been made and valuable experience gained that has helped her prepare for the next stage in her musical development. She thanks her private teachers and conductors for helping her make it to this point and gives glory to God for her success. In the fall, Julie will begin studying violin at Stetson University under Routa Kroumovitch and hopes to play professionally upon graduation.
Samuel Dufresne
Trombone, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 3
College:Columbus State College
Major: Music Performance
Samuel Dufresne is a senior at Winter Park High School. He has been principal trombone of the FSYO Symphonic Orchestra for 2 of his 3 years as a member. At WPHS, Sam has been principal trombone of the Wind Symphony, the Park Philharmonic, and the “Sound of the Wildcats” Marching Band for 4 years; serving also as section leader and brass captain. He was part of the WPHS Jazz Ensemble I for 3 years and performed in the pit orchestra for the WPHS “Night on Broadway” production for 3 years. Sam has been honored to participate in the All-State Music Ensembles for 6 years, the past 3 as principal. In addition, he performed in the All-County Band for 6 years, 5 as principal, and the All-County Jazz Band for 4 years. Sam attended the Festival of Winds, Tri-State, and Stetson Brass Camp. He performed at Carnegie Hall with the WPHS Wind Symphony last summer. As an AP Scholar with Distinction, Sam will graduate with an International Baccalaureate diploma. He is a member of the Tri-M Music Honor Society, National Honor Society, and Math Honor Society. Sam will be attending the Columbus State University Schwob School of Music in the fall, where he was awarded a scholarship to pursue a music performance degree. He would like to thank his teachers, Joey Vascik, Eric Mendez, Christopher Blackmer, Michael Clemente, and Laurie Bitters for supporting his musical growth. Thanks to Maestro Claassen and FSYO for the great musical experiences.
Brendan Eisner
French Horn, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 2
College: University of Florida
Major: Horn Performance
Brendan Eisner plays the horn, a very difficult instrument to play. That is why he wants to pursue a major in horn performance. When not practicing for the ridiculously challenging repertoire symphonic students are faced with, you can find Brendan on the beach or delivering pizzas at work. FSYO has had a life-changing impact for Brendan. It has allowed him to find how great it is to play horn in the orchestra but also has also shown the difficulty and focus required to make music. When he first started playing horn in the 6th-grade band he had no idea of how many great friends and memories he would be able to make through music in such a short period of time. He is thankful for his time in FSYO and for the hard working staff behind the organization.
Erin Ernst
Oboe, Philharmonia
Years in FSYO: 1
College: University of North Florida
Major: Music Education
Erin is an oboist from Osceola County. She has played both oboe and bassoon with the Saint Cloud High School Wind Ensemble and was recently elected Band President at her school for her senior year. She has performed with All County Bands and has received Superior ratings at both district and state solo and ensemble, along with one Superior with Distinction. She has also received a Superior rating at district MPA for student conducting and plans to pursue a career in teaching music. Erin will be attending the University of North Florida as a Music Education major. Erin would like to give her many thanks to her family, friends, and teachers that have supported her along the way, she would not be where she is today without such an incredible support system always backing her up.
Daniel Fernandez
Trumpet, Jazz
Years in FSYO: 1
College: University of Central Florida
Major: Music or Nursing
Daniel Fernandez started playing trumpet in 6th grade at Clermont Middle School and
ended up loving it. He got his start into jazz during his 8th grade year and has grown to love it every year since. Daniel attended Lake Minneola High after CLMS and now intends to pursue an AA degree, and then transfer to UCF for where he will study either music, or nursing.
Spencer Fike
Saxophone, Jazz
Years in FSYO: 1
Spencer Fike joined FSYO’s Jazz Orchestra for its inaugural season and will be graduating from Winter Park High School this spring.
Jose Fiorentino
Viola, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 2.5
College: University of Central Florida
Major: Music Performance
Jose loves to play, sing and listen to music. The art of music making is truly a gift, and he has had the privilege to play with FSYO. He would like to give thanks to all the wonderful players, Mr Claassen, the administrators, and most of all his parents.
Cody Fowler
Bass Trombone, Jazz
Years in FSYO: 2
College: Stetson University to UF
Major: Music Performance and Biology
Cody Allen Fowler, born February 1, 2000, is the son of Tim and Teresa Fowler of Port Orange, Florida and the oldest of five boys. He is currently a senior at New Smyrna Beach High School and is active in band, BMX racing, Barn Bratz 4-H Club, New Smyrna Beach High School FFA and Boy Scouts where he just recently achieved his Eagle Scout. Outside of school band, he enjoys being a member of FSYO Jazz Orchestra, Daytona State College Jazz Band and Orchestra, Port Orange Music Academy and has had the privilege to be a part of the Macy’s Great American Marching Band for the last two Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parades in New York. After graduation, Cody plans to attend Stetson University with a major in Music Performance with an outside field of Biology and then plans to transfer to the University of Florida large animal Veterinarian program.
Victoria Galiñanes
Cello, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 3
College: University of South Florida St. Petersburg
Major: Political Science
Victoria Galinanes is a high school orchestra major at the Osceola County School for the Arts. She will be attending the University of South Florida in St. Petersburg, where she will pursue a degree in Political Science this upcoming Fall. In the future Victoria would like to pursue Music Business or Law school. This year marks her seventh year playing cello, and she is finishing her third and last year with FSYO. She would like to thank FSYO, her mom, dad, and her sister, her boyfriend, her friends, Randall Love, and Camden Dumas for their continued support in her journey throughout these seven years; helping her fall more in love with cello and her orchestras.
Jonathan Gray
Clarinet, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 1
College: Florida State University
Major: Jazz Studies
Jonathan Gray began his musical career playing clarinet and alto saxophone under the direction of Mr. Jeremy Williamson at Jackson Heights Middle School in Oviedo, Florida. Afterwards, he was accepted into the Health Academy program at Seminole High School in Sanford, Florida where he currently plays alto saxophone in the Jazz Band and clarinet in the Wind Ensemble under the direction of Mr. P.L. Malcolm. Jonathan currently receives private instruction from Mr. Dan Ferri. He has strongly influenced and expanded Jonathan’s playing techniques, preparing him to perform as a professional musician. During his middle and high school years, Jonathan participated in several bands including FMEA All-State Jazz Band (2018), Tri-State Jazz Band (2016, 2017), Seminole All County Band (2012-2018), Orlando Big Band (2017), and the Florida Symphonic Youth Orchestra (2017-18). After completing his undergraduate degree, Jonathan plans to attend medical school to become an Emergency Room Anesthesiologist.
Varisa Gumpangkum
Viola, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 5
College: Georgia Tech
Major: Mechanical Engineering
This year is Varisa’s 5th year in FSYO and 3rd year in the Symphonic Orchestra. She is very thankful for all the opportunities she has been given through FSYO and for the motivation the orchestra gives her to improve her viola and musical skills. At Seminole High School, Varisa also supplements her love for music by taking AP Music Theory and IB Higher Level Music. Aside from her interest in music, Varisa has competed in Odyssey of the Mind - an international creative problem solving competition - for 7 years. By designing balsa wood structures to hold hundreds of pounds, Varisa and her team have qualified for the World Finals 4 times. Her highest weight held has been 995 pounds on a 15 gram structure. Through her experience of OM, she has been interested in pursuing Mechanical Engineering. She will be attending Georgia Tech this fall. In Varisa’s freetime, she enjoys doing calligraphy and learning about Asian culture. She founded a calligraphy club at her high school and is the vice president of the Asian Student Association at SHS. She plans to continue these interests in college and is excited for the opportunities Atlanta will give to her.
Alexander Hellhake
French Horn, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 1
College: Florida State University
Major: Horn Performance
Alexander was born at 7:20 pm on Friday, January 21st 2000 in Gretna, LA. He will be graduating from Freedom High School and looks forward to studying music at FSU this fall.
Nicholas Holcomb
Bass, Jazz
Years in FSYO: 1
College: Florida State University
Major: Jazz Performance
Nicholas began studying music at age 6. Although his primary instrument is the double bass, he is also skilled in playing guitar and piano. He began playing the double bass in Millennium Middle School’s Orchestra at age 11. He also joined the Florida Young Artist Orchestra at age 11 and was the principal bassist for 5 years. He was a member of the Winter Park Chamber for 2 years, during which he played double bass. He has been principal bassist in Seminole High School’s Orchestra program for four years. He has also been a member of the Seminole High School Jazz Band for four years. He has been playing with the Florida Symphony Youth Orchestra’s Jazz Orchestra for one year. He has studied bass with Richard Drexler. He will attend the Florida State University and plans to major in Jazz Performance.
Anna Horzen
Violin, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 12
College: University of Florida
Major: Violin Performance
Anna Horzen is a graduating senior from Cypress Creek High School’s International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. She has been playing the violin for 14 years and is not planning on stopping any time soon. She began studying with Ms. Susan Grey McCoy at age four and transitioned to Dr. Lev Gurevich’s studio at age 11. Anna has played in the Florida Symphony Youth Orchestra since she was six. This will be Anna’s twelfth and final season with FSYO and she is honored to be Concertmaster of the Symphonic Orchestra. In addition to FSYO, Anna is Concertmaster of the Cypress Creek High School Sinfonia Orchestra, a program that supported her participation in All-County, AllState, and the pit orchestras for “Shrek the Musical” and “Beauty and the Beast”. Anna was also named the Cypress Creek Performing Arts Student of the Year. Academically, Anna is a member of the National Honor Society, National German Honor Society, and the International Thespian Society. She is the President of the Orchestra Board and the founder of a club centered around handling performance anxiety. Anna will be attending the University of Florida in the fall of 2018 and is excited to be part of the Gator Nation!
Michelle Huang
Violin, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 3
College: University of Florida
Major: Wildlife Conservation and Music
Michelle has been playing the violin since 4th grade, and has increasingly loved music with each new challenge. She has been deeply involved with the orchestra program at Cypress Creek High School for four years; her endeavors include leading in first stand during concerts, playing in the pit orchestra of two theatre productions, performing for a community nursing home, and being the Vice President of the Orchestra Leadership Board. Additionally, she has participated in the All County Orchestra for three years. Since joining FSYO, Michelle has experienced exponential growth in her musicianship, from the simplest of techniques to the intricate nuances of a wide variety of music. Additionally, she went on the Europe tour with FSYO in 2017, where she absorbed breathtaking elements of culture and experienced music from a global perspective. Though many events highlight her musical journey, the smaller moments of bonding and learning with others are what truly define Michelle’s musical identity and keep her passion alive. No matter which path she takes, she will incorporate music into her life, hoping that it will inspire others as much as it inspired her.
Aaron Ianitelli
Guitar, Jazz
Years in FSYO: 1
College: Daytona State to USF
Major: Jazz
Composition Aaron has been studying Jazz Guitar for 8 years and plans on getting his Master’s degree in Jazz Composition. He currently studies under the direction of Abe Alam. Over his musical career, he has been a part of many prestigious ensembles such as the Festival of Winds Jazz Ensemble from 2015-2017 and achieved a superior with distinction at the state level with his jazz combo.
Molly Kaplan
French Horn, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 3
College: Northwestern University
Major: Horn Performance
Molly Kaplan has been playing the horn since 6th grade. She has studied with Grace Kuperman for 7 years, and is now in her third season with FSYO. Ms. Kaplan has participated in the Florida All-State Bands and Orchestras for the entirety of her high school career, and has also participated in the Honor Orchestra of America for the last two years. She attended the Interlochen Horn Institute last summer and plans to attend the Idyllwild Arts Camp this summer where she will play under the direction of maestro Larry Livingston. Molly will attend Northwestern University in the fall where she will major in Horn Performance under the direction of Gail Williams. Molly is grateful for the orchestral experience she has gained in FSYO and for Mr. Claassen, who served as her role model for the past two years.
Alex Koller
Viola, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 6
College: Harvard University
Major: Government
Alex Koller, a senior at Dr. Phillips High School, began playing the viola in 6th grade. He’s had the privilege of studying with John Adams these last five years and thanks him for his immense dedication, wisdom, and friendship. Alex has enjoyed six seasons with the FSYO — three as principal violist of the Symphonic Orchestra. As a 2017 FSYO Concerto Competition Winner, he performed the first movement of Bartók’s Viola Concerto with the Symphonic Orchestra. Previously, he was named a 2017 National YoungArts Foundation Winner, and served as principal violist of the All-State Concert Orchestra and as assistant principal of the All-State Symphony Orchestra. In 2015, Alex attended the BU Tanglewood Institute in Massachusetts, where he played in the String Quartet Workshop and served as principal violist of the Young Artists Orchestra. The following year, he studied with Grammy winner Phillip Ying at the Bowdoin International Music Festival in Maine. Last summer, as a member of the National Youth Orchestra of the USA, he performed under the baton of Marin Alsop on a tour spanning NPR’s “From the Top”, Carnegie Hall, Mexico, Ecuador, and Colombia. This July, he will be returning to NYO-USA on tour to Taiwan, China, and South Korea. Outside of music, Alex is graduating as a class Valedictorian. A National Merit Finalist and National AP Scholar, he was president of the History Club and Model UN, co-captain of the Quiz Bowl team, and active in his high school’s Center for International Studies. Following ten years of acting at the Orlando Shakespeare Theater, he also volunteered weekly as a teaching assistant. Alex can’t wait to wear Crimson at Harvard University this fall!
Alexa Lang
Violin, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 3
College: Florida State University
Major: Violin Performance
Alexa Lang has been playing the violin for 7 years, and is currently in her third season with FSYO. Last year, she served as concertmaster of the Philharmonia orchestra and was awarded the Alphonse Carlo Scholarship. This season, she has had the privilege of being the associate concertmaster of the chamber orchestra for the fall semester and the assistant principal second violinist of the Symphonic orchestra. This past summer, she joined FSYO’s Symphonic orchestra on their European tour and is looking forward to playing at Carnegie Hall with them this June. She has performed at venues throughout Lake County as part of a string quartet and currently plays gigs in Mount Dora. Alexa studies with Rimma Bergeron-Langlois. Alexa is 16 years old and is a dual enrollment student at Lake-Sumter State College. She will be graduating high school with her AA degree this spring. She is excited to attend Florida State University this fall on a competitive music scholarship as a violin performance major. She will be studying with Dr. Corinne Stillwell. Alexa wishes to express her deepest gratitude to her private teachers, conductors, family, and friends for supporting her every step of the way.
Olivia Lee
Violin, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 2
College: University of Florida
Major: Engineering
Olivia is graduating from West Orange High School this spring in the top of her class. She began playing violin in fourth grade through her elementary school and became passionate about music through her middle school teacher, Joanna Sell. She has enjoyed her years of All County Orchestra and Solo & Ensemble performances. Olivia has been the concertmaster of her high school orchestra for the past two years and is honored to mentor younger musicians. She has enjoyed performing in the pit orchestra all four years of high school for West Orange’s spring musicals. The past two summers she has performed in the Florida State University Music camp. In addition to music, she is a member of the National Honor Society and has been a Girl Scout for 10 years. Olivia is excited to become a Florida Gator, studying Engineering and Music. As this FSYO year comes to a close, Olivia would like to thank Mr. Davis for helping her to become a better musician and is grateful to her private teacher, Lisa Ferrigno, for believing in her.
Alex Liu
Viola, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 1
College: University of Florida
Major: Engineering
Alex Liu started music at the age of six, playing violin. He took private lessons all throughout elementary school and had his first experience playing in an orchestra during middle school. He participated in his school orchestra as well as his region’s All-County Orchestra for the following three years. Towards the end of middle school, Alex decided to pick up the viola and quickly fell in love with it. Throughout his high school career, the music that he and his fellow musicians have been able to produce is, in his opinion truly breathtaking and beyond imagination. In his freshman and junior year, he participated in the Florida All-State Orchestra where he was able to meet and work with wonderful musicians from all around the state. His experiences there have been some of the most memorable moments he’s had during high school. Whether they played Tchaikovsky or Mahler, it greatly inspired him and motivated him to continue pursuing his passion in music. Since he began playing the violin when he was six, he has undoubtedly become a better musician thanks to the attention and guidance from his private teacher, Ms. Svetlana. He would not be where he is today without her efforts. This fall, Alex will be attending the University of Florida as an engineering major. He is also looking to minor on the Viola as well and hopes to keep up his involvement in music through college and beyond. College will bring about a whole new challenge but it is one that he is sure he has been well prepared for.
Lydia Mentzer
French Horn, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 1
College: Florida State University
Major: Music Performance
Lydia has been studying French horn with Allison Campbell for the past seven years. At Boone, she has been principal horn in the Wind Ensemble for four years and was mellophone section leader for the past two years. Some of her musical achievements include: 2018 all-state band member, principal horn of the OCPS all-county band in 2017 and 2018, and the 2017 Honors Chamber Winds at FSU SMC. She is also a member of the BHS Law Academy where she is a distinguished scholar, AP scholar, and member of NHS and the Tri-M Music Honor Society. After her undergraduate studies, Lydia wants to attend law school and become a family attorney.
Robert Milne
Bassoon, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 1
College: UF or FSU
Major: Music and English
Robert Milne is a young multi-instrumentalist and music enthusiast who primarily studies the bassoon and electric bass. He has held the position of Drum Major in his high school’s marching band and has been involved on the stage and in the pit for multiple musical theatre productions. Robert intends to pursue a BA in Music and English, and is considering a career in the music industry as a producer, songwriter, or critic. He is very thankful for all of the experiences that FSYO has provided for him and thanks all of those who have helped him achieve his dreams thus far!
Maddie Morelock
Baritone Saxophone, Jazz
Years in FSYO: 1
Maddie Morelock joined FSYO’s Jazz Orchestra for its inaugural season and will be graduating from Satellite High School this spring.
Mick Pepper
Trombone, Jazz
Years in FSYO: 1
College: University of North Florida
Major: Jazz Studies
Mick Pepper has been playing the trombone since 6th grade. Since then, he has held chairs in the Florida All-State Jazz Ensembles, the 2017 All-National Jazz Ensemble under Todd Stoll, and the 2018 Jazz Band of America under Jeff Rupert.
Gabriela Prado
Cello, Philharmonia
Years in FSYO: 1
College: Rollins College
Major: Music Education
Gabriela Prado has grown up surrounded by music and aspires to further her musical education majoring in music performance at Rollins College. At the same time, growing up she was fascinated by ancient civilizations. She will be minoring in archaeology at Rollins as well. Gabriela wants to thank her family, teachers, and friends for a wonderful four years and an unforgettable year here in FSYO.
Marco Fuentes Rivera
Violin, Philharmonia
Years in FSYO: 8
College: United States Navy
Major: Nuclear Engineering
Marco started learning the violin at age three in Salt Lake City, Utah under the instruction of Ms. Melody. After moving to Florida, his new private instructor, coincidentally, was Ms. Melody’s aunt, Janice Phillips. Marco is grateful to have been instructed by Mrs. Phillips for the past 10 years. He joined FSYO in 2011, starting in Overture Strings after participating in FSYO’s summer program, String Mania. Some of his favorite memories are from String Mania with Dr. Mauricio Cespedes, which he attended every summer until 2016. Marco cherishes his experiences with FSYO and would like to thank Heidi Evans Waldron, the FSYO staff, and his conductors for allowing him to be part of a great organization. Marco has enlisted in the US Navy’s Nuclear Engineer Program and will head off to boot camp this summer.
Kaley Rodriguez
Trumpet, Philharmonia
Years in FSYO: 1
College: Valencia College
Major: Music Performance
Kaley Rodriguez is a senior at Cypress Creek High School. This is her first and final season with FSYO. She plans on attending Valencia College to receive an Associates in Arts degree. Once she has received this degree she will sign up for the Coast Guard and audition for their band. This summer she will audition from Drum Corps and attempt to fulfill her dream of marching a season at
Bluecoats.
Sarah Sawyer
Violin, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 6
College: University of Florida
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Sarah Warner Sawyer is in the APEX Scholars Academy at Olympia High School. She will graduate in the top 1% of her class, exiting with a 4.0 unweighted GPA. She has played the violin for eight years and currently serves as the Concertmistress of her school’s most advanced ensemble. In the summer of 2016, Sarah attended the prestigious Blue Lake Fine Arts Academy in Michigan and performed in the highest orchestra. Sarah has enjoyed her six years of FSYO, starting in Overture and making her way to Symphonic. She had the privilege of touring Europe and competing in the Summa Cum Laude International Youth Music Festival with FSYO in 2017 when 55 musicians spent 12 days performing 10 concerts in 3 countries on one trip of a lifetime. Sarah is President of the Titan Debate Team and a proud member of the National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Science, Tri-M Music, and Debate Honor Societies. She was voted “Best in Performing Arts” for senior superlatives. Sarah holds a leadership position in the Student Ministry at First Baptist Church of Orlando.
Robert Curtis Shugart
Cello, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 5
College: Florida State University
Major: Music Performance
Curtis has played cello for the past seven years and is completing his fifth season with FSYO. For the past 2 years, he has been a member of the Symphonic Orchestra and has also enjoyed playing with the FSYO Chamber Orchestra and The Winter Park Chamber Music Academy. This past summer, Curtis joined FSYO’s touring orchestra to compete in the Summa Cum Laude International Youth Music Festival in Vienna. For the prior two summers, he attended Canon Music Camp at Appalachian State University and served as Principal Cellist for the String Orchestra. Curtis was an FSYO concerto competition winner for the 2017-18 season. Curtis is a senior at Olympia High School and has been Principal Cellist for the advanced orchestra for 3 years. He is a member of the National Honor Society and the Tri-M Music Honor Society. Curtis participated in the All-County Orchestra for several years and is a 3 year member of the Florida All-State Orchestra. In addition to his passion for playing classical music, Curtis also enjoys composing music and mountain backpacking. Next year, he plans to attend Florida State University to pursue interests in music and international affairs.
Julia Sills
Flute, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 2
College: Florida State University
Major: Flute
Performance Julia has been passionate about studying and performing flute since the young age of seven. She is a student of Colleen Blagov, Principal Flute of the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. Julia has been selected twice as a finalist for the Florida Flute Association (FFA) High School Young Artist Competition and was recipient of the FFA Emeritus Scholarship. She has been selected three times for the Florida All-State ensembles. Julia has performed as a soloist, in a quartet, and with the orchestra in the Interharmony Sulzbach-Rosenberg International Music Festival in Germany. She was also one of two flutes selected for full-tuition scholarship to study and perform with the Florida State University Honor Chamber Winds and Orchestra, as well as an Honors Soloist. Julia is currently the principal flute player with FSYO Symphonic Orchestra and has performed often with both the symphonic and opera orchestras. This summer she looks forward to touring with FSYO and is honored to perform as principal flute on stage at Carnegie Hall. Julia is thankful for not only the opportunities FSYO has provided to her to grow as a musician, but also the friendships she has developed.
Annika Slaby
Violin, Philharmonia
Years in FSYO: 10
College: Lake Sumter State College
Major: Pre-med Nutrition Science
As both a ballet dancer and violinist, Annika has learned the value of leveraging at a young age. With a dream to become a professional ballet dancer, her violin has a become more than a close second in importance. It has helped deliver her dream. Coming into both art forms at the age of 6, it soon became clear that each played an integral part in forging a path for her future.
Adam Stern
Trombone, Philharmonia
Years in FSYO: 1
College: Stetson University
Major: Music Performance
Music as a whole has always been a major part of who I am, and I have grown so much in the past year alone. I am thankful for what FSYO has shown me in discipline as well as freedom of expression through the music played. Applying these skills to the next step of my music career will do nothing but benefit my growth in this amazing field. I am looking forward to what will be learned throughout college and beyond.
Brannon Talley
Oboe, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 1
Post-Grad: United States Army Band
Brannon Talley has been playing oboe for seven years. He has qualified for All-State Symphonic Band/Orchestra for the past two consecutive years and All-County Band for the past five consecutive years. After highschool, he will be joining the United States Army Band where he will continue making music while serving his country.
Justin Talley
Trombone, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 1
Post-Grad: United States Army
Justin Talley has been playing the trombone for the past seven years. He has qualified for the All-State Band/Orchestra for five consecutive years. Being in FSYO has given him the opportunity to travel around the world and has given him more insight into himself as a person. After highschool he will be joining the Army.
David Truilo
Tenor Saxophone, Jazz
Years in FSYO: 2
College: The New School of Jazz and Contemporary Music
Major: Jazz Performance
Florida native David Truilo was born in Daytona Beach. He began studying the clarinet when he was in 5th grade and added the tenor sax in 8th grade when his middle school started a jazz band. He has played in the top jazz band and wind ensemble at Spruce Creek High School throughout his high school career. He joined FSYO in 2016 as principal clarinetist in the Philharmonia Orchestra. This year he played with the Jazz Orchestra where he sat lead tenor sax. David also sat lead tenor sax in the All State Jazz band.
Claire Tseng
Violin, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 1
College: Harvard University
Major: Neurobiology and Sociology
Claire Tseng is a senior at Buchholz High School in Gainesville, Florida, and has studied violin with Dr. Lev Gurevich for nine years. Claire has actively participated in various musical activities. She has been selected to travel and play with many orchestras, including the Florida All-State Orchestra and NAfME All-National Symphony Orchestra, and has consistently attended the Florida Federation of Music Clubs State Junior Convention, where she has received several concerto and solo awards in violin and piano. Claire would especially like to thank Maestro Claassen and FSYO for giving her such a wonderful opportunity to play with the Symphonic Orchestra this last season. She has really appreciated all the guidance from Maestro Claassen and all the support the FSYO staff has given to facilitate this amazing orchestra!
Andrew Vogel
Oboe, Symphonic
Years in FSYO: 3
College: Stetson University
Major: Instrumental Performance
Andrew Vogel is from Stuart Florida but now lives in Orlando, where he goes to Freedom High School and is the 2nd chair oboe and English Horn player for FSYO’s Symphonic Orchestra. He is a very outgoing individual who loves to play music and enjoys every second of it. Andrew has been with FSYO for 3 seasons and has also participated in the Stetson Double Reed Workshop for 2 years straight. Last year he participated in the Stetson Double Reed Workshop’s Young Artist Competition where he was able to perform the English Horn solo “Solo De Tristan”. He was also selected to go to FSU’s Tri-State Festival where he performed as one of the principal oboists. Not only that, but he is also fortunate to be involved in an amazing band program at Freedom High School where he is the principal oboist and has gone to State MPA 3 out of the 4 years of his high school career. Andrew is excited for the road ahead of him. He is going on FSYO’s summer tour to New York to perform in Carnegie Hall and has also committed to Stetson University for Instrumental Performance. Along with that he also plans on attending Stetsons Double Reed Workshop again this summer. One of Andrews goals is to eventually create a similar music organization like FSYO.
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