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Chester County Press

Talented musicians step into the spotlight at Honors Recital

10/15/2014 04:44PM ● By Lev

The Oxford Arts Alliance’s Academy of Music recently held its first annual Honors Recital, an all-star showcase of some of the academy’s elite students.

“The recital is a celebration of the most advanced and dedicated students we have at the Oxford Arts Alliance,” explained Anthony Derrico, the director of education. “Each student has been selected by an instructor to participate in a performance and perform several pieces of music to showcase their talents.”

Derrico said that this year eight out of the 120 students at the academy were selected for the honors recital, and the musicians played a wide variety instruments, ranging from violin to guitar to piano. Vocal students were also showcased during the recital.

Savannah Larry performed the theme from “Witches Dance” on the violin, with her teacher, Colleen Jones, on the piano. Lauren Rutledge turned in guitar performances of “Black Bird” by Paul McCartney and “Fireflies” by Amanda Falk. Vocalist Mackenzie Walker sang a rendition of Francesca Paolo Tosti’s “Preghiera.” Guitarist Jesse Mayberry entertained the audience with “Jam Session,” while Logan Shafer performed an original composition, “Untitled.” Kate Dando performed her own song, “Betty Jane,” on guitar. Sydney Hildebrandt, a piano student, performed “Compline D’un Autre ete” by Yann Tiersen and “Sonatina in C” by Ludwig Von Beethoven. Vocalist Ella Brophy performed “Willow Song” from “The Ballad of Baby Doe” by Douglas Moore.

According to Derrico, the Honors Recital can be something that students at the academy aspire to each year.

“It is our goal that this recital not only celebrates these great performers, but motivates and encourages all of our students to be the very best musicians that they can be. We are hoping to expand the concert each year and showcase even more of the talented musicians currently studying at the Oxford Arts Alliance,” he said.