WHS students perform at All-State Music Festival

Two talented musicians from Washingtonville High School took the stage at the New York All-State Honors Band & Chorus Festival, held during the NYSSMA Winter Conference in Rochester, NY.

Junior Giovanni Berchielli earned a coveted spot as a French horn player in the All-State Symphony Orchestra, while senior Cooper Smith was selected as a bass vocalist in the All-State Mixed Chorus.

Entry into All-State ensembles is highly competitive, with only about 5% of students who audition on a Level 6 All-State solo are ultimately selected. During the four day experience, students rehearse and perform under the direction of distinguished college conductors, culminating in a final concert at the world-renowned Eastman School of Music.

For Giovanni, performing in the Eastman Theatre was a once in a lifetime experience.

“The concert was definitely the coolest part,” he said. “The Eastman Theatre is unbelievable. It feels like the kind of place you’d see the New York Philharmonic play – it's that professional and elaborate. Being able to walk out onto that stage and perform was just mind blowing.”

He added that the packed audience and exceptional acoustics elevated the performance even further.

“There was a lot of pressure in the best way,” Giovanni said. “The acoustics were amazing, and playing in a space like that made it hands down the best music experience I’ve ever had.”

Cooper echoed that sense of accomplishment, reflecting on both the intensity and the reward of the All-State experience.

“I was extremely shocked when I learned that I got into the NYSSMA All-State Chorus Conference because it’s extremely selective,” he said. “At first, I was nervous knowing I had to complete a part check to prove I knew my music, but once I finished, I was able to relax and really enjoy the experience.”

For Cooper, the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded musicians from across the state made the conference especially meaningful.

“It was amazing to be around people who were just as passionate about singing,” he said. “We all shared the same goal: to try our best and make great music.”

Cooper also expressed gratitude for the WHS Chorus Director Jeremy Groth whose guidance helped him reach All-State for the second consecutive year.

“I am so thankful to Mr. Groth for preparing me with the tools to make it to this conference two years in a row,” he said. “The days were long and my voice was very tired, but the sound we produced during the concert made it all worth it.”

Both students returned to Washingtonville with lasting memories, musical growth and a deeper appreciation for the dedication required to perform at the highest level. 

Congratulations, Cooper and Giovanni!