Twenty-one Merrick School District students have been chosen to participate in the Nassau Music Educators Association All-County Music Festival concerts to be held Jan. 13-19 at LIU Post’s Tilles Center for the Performing Arts.

These fine musicians distinguished themselves by being selected by various All-County committees throughout Nassa County.  Additionally, Levy Lakeside student Emma Lasky recently performed at the NMEA’s P.E.A.K. (Parents, Educators And Kids) Festival held on Nov. 17 at Freeport High School. The festival is open to deserving fourth-grade musicians through nominations from NMEA members, similarly to All-County participants. Emma was selected for her vocal prowess.

“Every year Merrick sends an impressive number of students to the various festivals that showcase talented youngsters throughout Nassau County,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Dominick Palma said. “Congratulations to the students, parents, music teachers and music coordinator Dr. Richard Nasto for their dedication to the performing arts. These kids continue to make us proud. They are true Merrick Stars.”

Congratulations to the following students:
Nathaniel Botta (Birch School, trumpet) 
Luca Copas (Levy Lakeside School, violin)
Kailey Faughnan  (Birch School, violin)
Sadie Freifeld (Birch School, chorus)
Adrianna Horshinski (Chatterton School, chorus)
Elena Hyzak (Birch School, chorus)
Emerson Kalman (Chatteron School, chorus)
Ryan Kenny (Birch School, percussion) 
Ian Klimov (Chatterton School, violin)
Justin Lapidus (Levy Lakeside School, chorus)
Emma Lasky (Levy Lakeside School, voice-PEAK)
Evan Leicht (Levy Lakeside School, baritone)
Ryan Levinter  (Chatterton School, viola)
Jason Lin (Birch School, viola)
Jack Peppel (Levy Lakeside School, trumpet)
Katherine Pucella (Chatterton School, clarinet)
Zara Selvin (Levy Lakeside School, chorus)
Halston Solomon (Levy Lakeside School, alto sax)
Delaney Yam (Levy Lakeside School, bass clarinet)
Emily Yam (Levy Lakeside School, bass clarinet)
Tiffany Yam (Chatterton School, flute)
Jocelyn Yeung (Levy Lakeside School, cello)