James Hotchkiss '14 Honored with All-Eastern Music Festival Nomination
When James Hotchkiss ’14 was selected to participate in the prestigious 2012 All-State Music Festival, he did not expect that his performance there would lead to another, more prestigious honor – a nomination to play bass in the orchestra at the All-Eastern Music Festival. Hotchkiss received his nomination after high scores at both Senior District and All-State festivals.
When James Hotchkiss ’14 was selected to participate in the prestigious 2012 All-State Music Festival, he did not expect that his performance there would lead to another, more prestigious honor – a nomination to play bass in the orchestra at the All-Eastern Music Festival. Hotchkiss received his nomination after high scores at both Senior District and All-State festivals.
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“I’m so excited about the nomination, and definitely surprised,” he said.
The festival is held every two years and will take place next April in Hartford, Connecticut.
Hotchkiss has been playing the bass for ten years, and excels in the Select 1A combo, Big Band, and Friday orchestra ensembles at Rivers.
“Playing music here is a blast,” he said. “It’s been nice to be able to play in so many different ensembles.”
Rachel Hawley ’15 also had one of the highest scores at the All-State Music Festival as a vocalist, despite the fact that ninth graders are not eligible for official All-Eastern selection.
In addition to singing, Hawley plays the trombone, bass, and tuba, and composes her own music as well. According to Choral Director Susan Emmanouilidis, Hawley will continue her highly successful career at Rivers in the years to come.
“Rachel is constantly asking what she can do to improve herself as a singer,” said Emmanouilidis. “She has true talent combined with amazing drive.”
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