de Zavala Students Play Music at Carnegie Hall

Posted Date: 06/02/2020

August 13, 2014 – Lorenzo de Zavala Middle School students Morgan Martin and Daniel Soya were given a glimpse into their futures this summer when they performed music at Carnegie Hall as part of the Middle School Honors Performance Series. Participation in one of the three Honors Ensembles is based on application and review of talented student musicians throughout North America.

Martin and Soya auditioned last fall for the Honors Performance Series and were accepted upon review by the Honors Selection Board. Applications to the board include an audition recording. Martin performed Violin 1 in the orchestra, and Soya played horn in the band.

“Daniel [Soya] has been my only student to ever apply, and I hope that he experienced the joy of performing with other musicians of his caliber, as well as sharing that excitement with others,” de Zavala Band Director Britni Nuckols said. “It’s always an excellent learning experience to rehearse and perform under different conductors.”

According to Honors Performance Series Director Lisel Bruscia, “Being selected to the Honors Performance Series is something each Junior Finalist should be extremely proud of accomplishing. We process thousands of nominations annually, selecting only the most talented performers. Working with these conductors and performing at Carnegie Hall is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that these student musicians never forget.”

Martin studies music with Eric Rath and is a member of the de Zavala advanced orchestra. She is also active in drama club.

Soya studies music with Britni Nuckols and Professor Ron Lemon and is a member of the de Zavala band. Additionally, he is active in swimming and a member of the Science Bowl team.

Junior Finalists came together for five days in June in New York City to learn under Conductor Kirt Mosier, work with other Junior Finalists and explore the city.