Two Babylon orchestra students, seventh-grade violinist Kieran McCreight and twelfth-grade bassist Katherine Orifici, were selected to perform in this year’s Long Island String Festival, hosted by the Long Island String Festival Association (LISFA). Their selection was a recognition of their talent, dedication to the music arts, and the guidance of their teachers. 

Kieran took part in the LISFA Suffolk Intermediate Festival, held January 23 and 24 in the Northport School District. Katherine performed in the LISFA secondary festival, which ran from January 9 through 11 in the Eastport South Manor School District.

The Long Island String Festival is an annual celebration of high-achieving orchestra students across Long Island. Participants are chosen based on their New York State School Music Association scores from the previous school year, along with orchestra teacher recommendations. Leading up to the event, students learn musical selections independently, then rehearse as an ensemble under the guidance of professional orchestral musicians, culminating in a community performance.

“The opportunity to attend one of these festivals is such an honor for a young musician,” said Babylon Orchestra Director Ashley Tomei. “Congratulations to these two on a successful and wonderful experience they will never forget.”

For more information about the Babylon Union Free School District, please visit the District’s website at www.babylon.k12.ny.us. Exciting activities happening throughout the District and programs celebrating student achievement can also be found on the District’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/babylonschooldistrict/ and Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/babylonufsd.