Seven from Huntington Named to All-County Ensembles

Seven Huntington High School juniors and seniors have been named to the New York State Council of Administrators of Music Education’s All-County ensembles that will perform in November.

The students include Damaris Mani-Munoz (orchestra-viola), Samuel Soric (mixed chorus, Tenor 1), Alexa Schirripa (mixed chorus-alto 1), Emily Kustera (mixed chorus-alto 1), Liva Camarata (mixed chorus-soprano 1), Jake Amend (mixed chorus tenor 2) and Josephine Sullivan (mixed chorus-soprano 1).

“I’m thrilled to be singing in the all-county choir,” Ms. Sullivan said. “It’s always an amazing experience because we always sing challenging music that helps me to grow my musical ability. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for this year.”

The seven students have been studying with Huntington teachers James DiMeglio and Victoria Garbarino.

“I am very excited to sing with such an advanced choir,” Mr. Soric said. “Between All-State and NYSCAME, I feel prepared to learn from talented choral directors and use it in my own music. I would also like to thank our ‘queen mother,’ Ms. Garbarino for helping me receive such great opportunities throughout my high school career.”

All of the Huntington honorees have been immersed in the district’s music program for many years. The teenagers each said that music is a big part of their daily life.

“Being a part of the All-County music ensemble feels like such a privilege,” Ms. Mani-Munoz said. “I never imagined getting to such a level as NYSCAME, but it feels like a wild dream to me. Especially as the only instrumentalist in the group, it truly is an honor to represent Huntington one last time before I graduate next spring.”

Huntington UFSD prides itself on offering an exceptional music program with a long list of performance opportunities. Students have been capturing awards for more than 100 years.

“I’m really excited to have this opportunity and represent Huntington’s music department,” Ms. Camarata said. “I’d like to thank Ms. Garbarino for encouraging me to push myself to be the best that I can be and always supporting me in my musical endeavors.”

The Huntington students will rehearse several times with their colleagues from across Suffolk before performing in concert this fall.

“I wasn’t expecting to be chosen for the All-County music festival, but I’m more excited than ever to participate,” Ms. Schirripa said. “I can’t wait to sing with my friends and make new friends.”

The Huntington music program is set for another banner year and the seven All-County performers will play a big role in the 2023/24 festivities.

“I’m very happy to be chosen for All-County music festival and I can’t wait to attend it and be a part of this group,” Mr. Amend said.