Huntington Musicians Participate in Tuba Day

Huntington UFSD was well represented at the Suffolk County Music Educator Association’s 45th Day of Tuba and Euphonium (baritone horn) at Central Islip High School. Band director Andre Rizzuto accompanied the students.

Huntington’s John Dos Santos (euphonium), Jaden Scott (euphonium), Kellee Benitez (tuba)

Joseph Herman (euphonium) and Cole Lima (tuba) participated in this year’s program.

“This is an opportunity for students to participate in a master class,” said Dr. Robert J. Wottawa II, district director of fine and performing arts. “This year Hiram Diaz, a euphonium virtuoso from ‘The President’s Own’ U.S. Marine Band, was selected by SCMEA to lead our students.”

The recent event culminated in a performance that began with All-State Honors student performers, who were then joined by all other high schoolers. This continues to include middle school students and then elementary students.

“If you have never heard a sea of tubas filling an auditorium, you are really missing out,” Dr. Wottawa said. “What an incredible experience for our children to meet and work with a professional that is directly related to their instruments.”

This annual event is eagerly anticipated by Huntington students, who have a long tradition of participating in it. “Stay tuned for the next tuba event, titled Tuba Christmas where tuba players from all over circle Rockefeller Center and play holiday music on the tuba,” Dr. Wottawa said.