This past weekend marked a great milestone for the Old Rochester Regional Music Department. Mason Tucker and Edward Gonet IVboth performed at the Massachusetts Music Educators Association Southeastern (SEMMEA) Districts Virtual Music Festival.
Beyond taking part in the regional festival, both musicians received recommendations to be a part of the “All-State” musical festival. This musical event consists of the top musicians from around the state.
Tucker, a senior, graced the piano in the Jazz ensemble with its rendition of “Bye Bye Blackbird.” He commented, “I’m glad that I got to see old friends from past District festivals once again. I am proud that we at least put together something refreshing during these trying times.”
Gonet, a junior, sang in the choir as a bass. He remarked, “It brought me much joy to be able to sing with other people again, even if over Zoom. It drove my family crazy singing classically in the house, but I am very glad to have had this effervescent opportunity.”
Tucker and Gonet attribute their success to Michael Barnicle, Music Department director, who helped them prepare for the auditions and navigate a virtual world of music.