Old Saybrook High School Band and Chorus students were visited by a group of professors from Ithaca College’s School of Music, Theater, and Dance. Woodwind studio faculty were represented by Dr. Wendy Mehne (flute), Jake Walsh (oboe), Dr. Christin Schillinger (bassoon), Dr. Diego Vasquez (clarinet), Dr. Richard Faria (bass clarinet), and Dr. Eric Troiano (saxophone).
In addition to an eclectic performance of works ranging from Beethoven and Stravinsky to Thelonius Monk, Charles Mingus, and a little Bulgarian folk music, the guests fielded a variety of questions from students and gave tips about collaborating in chamber groups. Two student-run chamber groups were also selected to perform for a masterclass and coaching with a live audience of their peers.
Old Saybrook Public Schools counts three Ithaca College alumni among their music faculty - Tom Conti, Beth Malvezzi, and Laura Caruthers. We’re extremely grateful that the Ithaca faculty were able to stop at Old Saybrook High School on their fall outreach tour!