Rocky Point High School’s Concert Choir and new Treble Choir, under the direction of Ms. Jessica Spitz, the 9th-12th Grade Orchestra, under the direction of Mr. Nicholas Butcher, the 9th-10th Grade Band, under the direction of Mr. Vincent Ragona, and the 11th-12th Grade Band, under the direction of Ms. Amy Schecher, all participated in the  recent High Notes Festival, a motivational, one-day music festival where the students perform and are adjudicated by current or former music educators familiar with the abilities of school-aged musicians. The adjudicators provided each ensemble with recorded and written comments, along with a numerical rating. The adjudicators listened for the execution of the skills and techniques the students learn and practice each day, including breath control, intonation, phrasing, dynamics, attacks, releases, diction, balance, tone, posture, attentiveness to the director and concert etiquette. 

This festival provided Ms. Spitz, Mr. Butcher, Mr. Ragona and Ms. Schecher with beneficial professional development and offered the students constructive and valuable feedback on musical strengths, and considerations and recommendations for further developing and enhancing their skills and abilities. The students listened to the judges’ comments in class the week following the trip and heard many praises and suggestions of the adjudicators. This inspired thoughtful in-class reflection was used to celebrate the successes as an ensemble this year. The students also collaborated and wrote down goals and reminders for their sections next year. The festival culminated with a fun-filled day at Six Flags Great Adventure, where the students enjoyed the rides, entertainment and attractions!
 
A congratulatory message from Rocky Point Music Department chairpersons Mr. Craig Knapp and Ms. Schecher read: “The students had a wonderful day performing and celebrating a successful school year. The high school music teachers are very proud of the work the students did this year, and they are most grateful to the students for sharing their time, talent and dedication. We are very proud of Ms. Spitz, Mr. Butcher, Mr. Ragona and all the High School students who performed at the High Notes Music Festival. Congratulations to all of you for achieving high ratings! Thank you to the families of these very accomplished students for all their support and encouragement. We are extremely appreciative that the Rocky Point School District Administration and Board of Education supports and encourages these forms of experiences for the students and the music department.”