The Greater Amsterdam School District is proud to recognize its May Musicians of the Month! These talented students have demonstrated exceptional musical ability, dedication, and leadership across a variety of programs, from band and chorus to general music classes.
Cheyenne Feliciano (AHS Instrument Flute): Cheyenne is a sophomore musician in the Advanced Concert Band and the Marching Rams. Though Cheyenne joined the band program for the first time last year as a ninth grader, she quickly caught up and has become a fantastic flutist and asset to the band program.
Cheyenne is also the Lights Crew Chief for the AHS Drama Club and recently combined her lighting and musical talents to program an incredible light show for the Advanced Concert Band’s performance of the piece “Lights Out,” by Alex Shapiro at our May concert. This was a unique challenge and Cheyenne’s vision and creativity helped bring the work to life, making it extra special. We are so thankful for all that Cheyenne does and proud of her work!
Cheyenne Feliciano
Jaidalis Gautier (AHS Voice): Jaidalis is a junior musician in the Select Chorus and of the Amsterdam Drama Club productions. Jaidalis has been a committed member of the choral program throughout her entire career in the GASD beginning in fourth grade. She is a strong leader in her section and is a huge cheerleader for those in her section and those around her. She is full of excitement and encouragement, exemplifying what it means to be a team player and the joy of music emanates from her. She joined the Drama Club this year and has been equally as impactful and vital. We are so proud of the performer and leader Jaidalis is becoming and look to see what the future has in store for her as she enters her senior year next school year.
Jaidalis Gautier
Naelyz Batista & Nevaeh Hayes (LLA Instrument Trombone): Naelys and Nevaeh are 8th grade trombonists who are in both concert and jazz band. Throughout this year, they have both been the definition of leading by example. During their advisory class, they attended many seventh grade band rehearsals, adding strong support to the low brass section because they saw the need in our instrumentation and they wanted to help. In our two recent band concerts, they both played in every ensemble we have at LLA, also helping the sixth grade during performance as well. Naelys and Nevaeh are leaders in our band program, and the kindness, joy, and enthusiasm they have for music and playing their instruments is a bright light in the band room. We are grateful to have had them in our band program, and even though they will be missed at LLA, we know the future is bright and look forward to seeing them on stage next year at AHS.
Naelyz Batista & Nevaeh Hayes
Dior Pittman & Isabella Rodriguez (LLA Clarinets): Dior Pittman & Isabella Rodriguez have been model musicians in sixth grade band class this past spring. They’ve come to all of their lessons, been leaders in their classes, and have volunteered time during their advisories to come to extra band classes to help out and make sure they are prepared for their spring concert. Through hard work and dedication, these two are definite contenders for “most improved” in our 6th grade band this year, quickly becoming some of the best playing musicians in our band. We’re looking forward to seeing what you two do in seventh grade band next year!
Dior Pittman & Isabella Rodriguez
Logan Darling (Recording and Production: Electronic Music): Logan has been making projects on Soundtrap on his own. These projects show amazing musical ability with the use of phrasing, texture, and instrumentation. You can check out his work at the LLA General Music Showcase on 6/16 between 6 and 7:30 p.m. in the LLA Cafeteria!
Logan Darling
El’sie Rochford (Curie GM): El’Sie is a fourth grade student who is new to our district this year. She mentioned that her family plays music together at home and that she has been playing the electric bass since she was seven! We were able to borrow one from Ms. Rehm at LLA so El’Sie could show off her talents and were super impressed! She played every note to “Sir Duke” by Stevie Wonder and the solo in “Spain” by Chick Corea. It was awesome to show the other students what it looks and sounds like to dedicate so much time to learning an instrument! El’Sie has a great musical future ahead of her and we can’t wait to see what she does next!
El’sie Rochford
Fabian Bayke-Merino (Tecler GM) - Fabian has been an excellent student and musician all year long and now it is the time to feature how great he is! Fabian works hard in choir, band, and music class every day. He is always offering to help in any way he can! He is a kind, thoughtful and caring leader in general music, clarinet lessons, Orff ensemble and choir. Thank you for everything you do Fabian. You rock!!
Fabian Bayke-Merino
Zachary Kennedy (Elem Band Instrument): Zac is a trombone player at Tecler Elementary. He brings a positive attitude, enthusiasm, and passion for music to Band this year. Zac plays with a big sound, always attends lessons, and did a nice job on his trombone group’s composition at the spring concert. Best of luck in middle school band next year!
Zachary Kennedy