The Greater Amsterdam School District has announced its October Musicians of the Month, recognizing students across the district for their talent, leadership and dedication to the music programs.
Alexandra Forte (AHS Instrument) - Senior Drum Major and Tenor Saxophonist Alexandra Forte is a true asset to the AHS band program. As Senior Drum Major this fall, her enthusiasm has been contagious and she has led the Marching Rams with skill, kindness, humility, and a touch of humor. She is unafraid to be herself which makes her peers feel comfortable to take risks as musicians and marchers. Alex is the true definition of a leader and much of the Marching Ram’s success this season can be attributed to her hard work and dedication
Additionally, Alex has no shortage of talent on her instrument as she is a skilled tenor saxophonist who is a member of the Advanced Concert Band, lead tenor in the AHS Jazz Ensemble, and has set an example of how to be a great musician through participation, practice, and commitment to her craft. When she is not leading the band or playing tenor saxophone, you can catch her on stage with the AHS Drama Club or participating with the AHS choral program.
Congratulations Alex!
Jorge Martinez (AHS Voice) - Senior Member of Amsterdam High School’s Select Chorus Jorge Martinez brings joy and light to the AHS choral program. From being a leader in his vocal section to lending a hand whether needed or simply bringing warmth and kindness from his conversations, Jorge seeks to make his interactions a joyous one.
Jorge has participated as not only a member of the AHS Select Chorus, but has participated in the Montgomery All-County Music Festivals, where he was a featured soloist last year. He is also very active in the AHS Drama Club and has performed multiple roles in past productions of Beauty & The Beast, The Crucible and HADESTOWN: Teen Edition. He will be next seen on stage as Bob Cratchit in A Christmas Carol.
Congratulations Jorge and thank you for all that you bring to our programs!
Yadian Martinez MARTINEZ (LLA Instrument) - Yadian is an eighth grade concert and jazz band student who has started off the school year making great personal progress in music. In concert band, he is an accomplished clarinetist, and this year he has taken on the extra responsibility of playing tenor saxophone in the jazz band. Yadian’s careful practicing ensures he always plays his best, and he never gets discouraged with new challenges. He never fails to make people smile with his humor and story telling, and he has added so much joy to our program over the past three years. Congratulations Yadian!
Shelby Vogel (LLA Voice) - Shelby is a member of Select Chorus 7 and is also taking piano lessons this school year. She is a hard worker and has really developed excellent rehearsal skills. She’s made huge strides sight-reading new music and leads by example in her section. Shelby is a positive influence on her peers. Keep it up, Shelby!
Irma Torres (LLA Band) - Irma is a member of our sixth grade band and has been off to an incredible start this year! She plays trumpet with a warm confident tone and is a powerhouse in class. She comes to every lesson and approaches her music learning with maturity, intention, and enthusiasm well beyond her age. We’re excited to see her continue her journey as a band student at LLA!
Jackson McSpirit (LLA General Music) - Jackson has spent the past month excelling at guitar. He has learned multiple songs, many by ear. Jackson comes to the music room during lunch to practice, and he even teaches others how to play. His enthusiasm for learning is evident!
Gabriella Vanburen (Curie GM) - Gabby is a fifth grade Curie student who just started playing guitar this year. She is a very quick learner and has already caught up to her peers who played in fourth Grade (by only the second month of school)! Gabby is a kind and thoughtful friend who jumps in to help friends learn what she has already mastered and is eager to learn more! We are lucky to have such a hard worker and great team player in our group this year. Look out for Gabby and the rest of our Curie musicians at their Winter Concert this December!
Melody Maybury (Tecler GM) - Melody is a fourth grade student at Tecler Elementary. She has been doing an excellent job in music class with helping others and really has a grasp on the material in our current unit. She has also been a great leader throughout music class, always ready to lend a hand!. Thank you for working so hard Melody! Keep it up!
Alani Lopez (Elem Band Instrument) - Alani is a fifth grade clarinet student at Marie Curie. She is attentive and curious in lessons and is the first one to help a classmate who needs support! Alani is always in the band room at lunch playing her instrument with friends - her love of music is quite clear. Keep up the great work!
