SCCS proudly celebrates Junior Area All-State Students

November 10, 2025

On November 7th and 8th, three SCCS students had the honor of being selected to participate in the prestigious Zone 3 Junior High (grades 7-9) Area All-State Festival, an event that recognizes exceptional young musicians from across Broome, Cayuga, Cortland, Onondaga, Seneca, and Tioga counties. This festival showcases some of the most talented student performers in the region, with only 80 musicians chosen for each ensemble through a highly competitive selection process.

Selection for the Concert Band is particularly rigorous, as each instrument section typically accepts only 10 or fewer students from the entire zone. Students qualify for consideration by earning top scores on NYSSMA solo performances at Level 4 or higher, demonstrating advanced musical skill and dedication.

SCCS proudly celebrates the achievements of the following students:

• Natalie McKee (Grade 7) – Clarinet, Concert Band

• Alex Soch (Grade 9) – Trumpet, Concert Band

• Emmett McKee (Grade 9) – Mixed Choir

These outstanding students traveled to Homer High School for the two-day festival, where they rehearsed and performed advanced musical selections under the direction of accomplished guest conductors. The experience offered them the opportunity to collaborate with other high-achieving musicians, refine their technical skills, and perform challenging repertoire at a professional level.

Congratulations to Natalie, Alex, and Emmett for their remarkable accomplishments and for representing SCCS with pride, talent, and dedication at this distinguished event!