The Greater Amsterdam School District has announced its December Musicians of the Month, recognizing students across the district for their talent, leadership and dedication to the music programs.
CONNOR BORTHWICK (AHS Instrument) - Flute - Meet our December Musician of the Month, sophomore Connor Borthwick—a dedicated flute player always willing to volunteer and help wherever he’s needed. Connor is an active member of our flute section, participating in both Marching Band and Concert Band. He currently serves as the librarian for the Marching Rams, taking on the important responsibility of organizing and distributing music for the entire ensemble. Connor also represents our program at a variety of community events and frequently volunteers at our organization’s fundraisers. Connor brings a positive attitude to everything he does, and we couldn’t think of anyone more deserving of this recognition during the holiday season. Congratulations, Connor!
JAIDALIS GAUTIER (AHS Voice) - Meet our December Musician of the Month, Senior Jaidalis Gautier, an extremely talented and loyal member of the AHS Select Chorus. Jaidalis has been involved in the choral program at Amsterdam for her entire education. She is a talented musician whose dedication and professionalism is very apparent. Jaidalis works hard to support our music programs, whether it is getting people excited for new music for the upcoming choral concert or promoting and getting the community excited for our events. Jaidalis consistently makes herself available to help others and make their experience the best it can be. Jaidalis is also an excellent member of the AHS Drama Club and will be seen in the spring for our musical! Jaidalis has made herself invaluable to our programs and we are proud to have her in our Select Chorus! Congratulations Jaidalis!
SAMUEL CETNAR (LLA Instrument) - Eighth grade percussionist Sam Cetnar has been such an important part of our band program at LLA. He plays in concert and jazz band, and has come so far as a musician. Besides being an asset to the percussion section, and a dedicated and risk taking drum set player, he is always one of the first people to ask if anyone needs help. He was responsible for much of our concert set up, and helped direct students during concert transitions. He is a pleasure to teach, and his love for percussion is an example to so many students. Thank you Sam for everything you have done for our band, and for being such a joy to have in our program.
JAYCOB COOL (LLA Voice) - Jaycob is a seventh grader in Select Chorus at LLA. He is a natural leader in his section, singing confidently and strongly for all to hear. He also works very hard in piano lessons and is making great progress. He had a blast on our holiday caroling trip and enjoyed spreading holiday cheer with the choir at several nursing homes around the city. We are so proud, Jaycob. Keep it up!
TERESA MAZZONE (LLA Clarinet) - Teresa Mazzone is a rockstar clarinetist in sixth grade. She just recently played with both her sixth grade band AND learned all the music for and played with the seventh grade band at the LLA Winter Band Concert. She’s always prepared for class, comes to every lesson, and is a joy to have in band. We’re excited to see what Teresa can do as she continues her music education!
LOGAN GONZALEZ (LLA General Music) - Logan goes above and beyond every class to make sure he does his absolute best. He started the month by making a great project using the elements of music, and ended the month learning songs on guitar. He tracks through the music and plays with a steady beat all on his own!
AUBREY GOUDREAU, CARSON DODD, BRIELLA SAXON, TYLER SELLINGHAM, and XHAMIYA BONEFONT (Barkley GM) - These five Barkley fifth graders spent extra time in the music room after their winter concert to learn several Christmas carols so they could participate in the FAME caroling trip to the AHA. They consistently work hard and demonstrate role model behavior in chorus, and were even willing to miss their classroom holiday party to participate in the caroling - what dedicated musicians!
JALEN GOMEZ (Curie GM) - Jalen is a first grade Curie student who always tries his best in music class! He is a great role model for his peers, especially with the work we’ve done to prepare for the 1st grade winter concert this year. Jalen has a strong voice and always sings with expression. He’s a quick learner and was able to memorize our songs in record time. This guy is going places so keep a look out for Jalen… He’s going to do big things!
MARY MUMPTON (McNulty GM) - Mary is a fourth grader at McNulty. She has a wonderful work ethic and strong musicianship. She shines during rehearsals and performances, and can be depended on to know how to sing her part and help those around her. Mary’s enthusiasm is especially appreciated! Keep up the great work!
RIGEL BEJINES (Elem Band Instrument) - Rigel is a fifth grade saxophone student at Tecler Elementary. He is a mature and responsible student who does an outstanding job in lessons ! He attends every lesson, plays with a great sound, and practices at home. I can’t wait to see how he grows by the end of the year. Keep up the great work!
