CJ Tomaszewski is with the conductor of the All National Orchestra, Dr. Jean Montès. Submitted photo
During the 2017-2018 school year, talented music students from across the United States practiced diligently to gain a part in their local, district, and state music honor ensembles. Those high school musicians who were accepted to their Conference All-State ensembles were then given the opportunity to audition for the All National Honor Ensembles. “The best of the best were selected for the National Association for Music Education’s (NAFME) 2018 All-National Honor Ensembles. The All-National performers represent collaboration and creativity in its highest musical form.” (www.nafme.org)
Last month, Honeoye Falls-Lima High School had the rare and special opportunity to send one of its own music students to play with the All-National Orchestra in Orlando, FL. Charles “CJ” Tomaszewski was chosen as first trombone in the Orchestra, and performed with the group at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort at Walt Disney World on November 28th. Tomaszewski traveled to Orlando with his family and Mark Borden, HF-L Wind Ensemble conductor, and worked alongside the nation’s top young musicians. The students rehearsed with the orchestra for several hours each day, under the direction of Dr. Jean Montès.
“Each All-County or All-State ensemble has shown me the exceptional talent and dedication among musicians in my own area and state, but the Nationals’ experience was at a different level. I am very grateful to have had this opportunity to work with the finest talent in the nation, which has been a goal of mine for many years,” said Tomaszewski.
