The Central High School District held its third annual district orchestra concert on May 27.   

This 37-member ensemble is a selective, upper-level orchestra led by Emily Kenyon and Kelly Friedmann, the orchestra directors who oversee the programs Kennedy, and Mepham High Schools. The concert was hosted at Kennedy High School and included performances by the combined Grand Avenue and Merrick Avenue Middle Schools’ Chamber Orchestras, led by Kathleen McCabe.  

Students from all buildings were invited to audition in the fall, and rehearsals were held weekly into May. 

"The District Orchestra Concert is one of our favorite events of the year because it brings together students from all five buildings and showcases the wonderful, tight-knit, and powerful community that exists in the district-wide orchestra program,” noted Emily Kenyon, the orchestra director for Kennedy and Mepham High Schools, as well as the districtwide orchestra. “While the concert is meant to highlight and celebrate the incredible musical talents of our orchestra students, the concert is just as much a celebration of friendship and community.” 

“On behalf of the district, we are extremely grateful to Ms. Kenyon, Ms. Freidmann, and Ms. McCabe, who continue to go above and beyond creating these wonderful opportunities for our students,” added Cheryl Fontana, the district’s Director of the Fine & Performing Arts. 

The evening culminated with a combined grand finale, including several orchestra alums who were in attendance.