Congratulations to the following West Islip High School students who were recently selected to participate in the 2025 New York State School Music Association All-State Festival. This prestigious festival features the most outstanding musicians from New York State: James Aspetti (symphonic band), Natalie Aspetti (symphony orchestra), Bruno Basile (symphonic band), Ruslan Ermakov (symphonic band and wind ensemble), Colin German (symphony orchestra), Robert Marrali (wind ensemble), Gavin Pollock (symphonic band and mixed chorus) and Ellianna Wolhar (treble chorus). 
    In addition, West Islip High School juniors and seniors were selected to participate in the 67th annual New York State Council of Administrators of Music Education All-County Festival. This prestigious event includes the most accomplished musicians from the county. The concert will be held at Hauppauge High School on Nov. 14. Congratulations to the following students: James Aspetti (symphonic band), Natalie Aspetti (orchestra and treble choir), Bruno Basile (symphonic band), Nicholas Esposito (orchestra), Leah Gallagher (symphonic band), Colin German (orchestra), Zachary McGrath (symphonic band), Robert Marrali (symphonic band), Nico Mastroddi (mixed chorus), Gavin Pollock (symphonic band and mixed chorus), Charlie Roman (mixed chorus), Cara Thaxter (mixed chorus) and Ellianna Wolhar (mixed chorus). 
    Lastly, three West Islip High School accomplished music composers were recognized for the 2025 New York State School Music Association’s 26th annual Student Electronic Showcase. This competition features the top student music composers from New York State. James Kennedy will have his composition, “Ambata,” performed in Rochester at the concert venue. Charlie DellUniversita was selected as an honorable mention for his composition, “A Relentless Echo,” and Robert Marrali was selected as an honorable mention for his composition, “The Final Battle.”