Throughout July, over 100 Herricks students, ranging from third through ninth grade, came together at Herricks Middle School to hone their skills, gain confidence and have fun at the district’s Summer Music Program.

The program is directed by Anissa Arnold, Herricks Fine and Performing Arts director, and its instructors, including several Herricks music faculty. In addition, the program includes support from members of high school Tri-M Honor Society who serve as counselors, instructors and mentors for the younger students.

During the four-week program, students practice and perform as part of an elementary or intermediate orchestra or band, based on their age and skill level. Students also are divided into chamber groups, giving them more opportunity for individual musical freedom and expression.

In addition, the students all participate in chorus where they focus on singing under the direction of Diana Minerva, Center Street Elementary School choral teacher. With Minerva, they also work on expanding their general music skills, including learning ukulele, playing rhythm games and delving into music theory and ear training.

Eva Viavattine, Herricks Middle School orchestra teacher, who has been a
summer music instructor since 2021, said she believes the social component of the program helps students develop essential proficiencies and a deeper love for their instrument.

“Our campers enjoy the informal setting and have a lot of fun,” Viavattine said in a press release. “They get to work in smaller chamber groups, play music with new and old friends and improve improvisational abilities. Plus, the boost in confident and leadership skills will serve them well when they join the full orchestra or band during the year.”

According to Viavattine, the magic of the program is deeply embedded in the collaboration with the Tri-M Honor Society students.

“This camp couldn’t run without them,” Viavattine said. “They are incredible mentors and coaches, and their guidance and support has a profound impact and lasting influence on the campers.”

“The vast majority of the counselors have been campers themselves in this program,” Arnold said. “Many have participated every year and then after graduating from the program, move on to the counselor role. These students have a passion for what we do and are thrilled for the opportunity to inspire young students as they were inspired themselves.”

Abigail Loo, Herricks senior and co-president of Tri-M, is a former camper and has
been a counselor for two years where she works primarily with flute players. She said she believes that the high school students have a lot to offer their younger counterparts.

“It was an amazing experience for me, being a middle schooler and getting to learn from the high schoolers. It’s a unique collaborative environment and I’m happy to have the opportunity to work with these students, provide inspiration and mentorship and share my positive experience with the next generation of campers.”

“I was really nervous when we started, but the other counselors have been extremely supportive and it didn’t take long for me to relax and have fun,” Dean Singh, tenth grader and violist who started as a camper in third grade and is in his first year as a counselor, said. “We are not focused strictly on classical music but are exploring other genres that the campers will find relatable and intriguing on a personal level.”

Shreyan Biswas, an eleventh grade trumpet player and second year counselor,
said she believes that the Tri-M members have an impact on the campers that goes beyond just the musical level.

“We make jokes and have fun with the kids, while leading by example and
showing them that it’s ok to make mistakes and build on them,” Shreyan said. “We are also
humbled by the incredible talent some of these students possess and inspired by the
opportunity to help bring out the best in them and prepare them for the future.”

The program culminated with a full concert featuring all students performing in
each area covered over the summer, which was attended by parents, members of the
community and Herricks staff.

“The Herricks Summer Music program has been a valuable part of the Herricks Music Department for the past 13 years,” Arnold said. “I am very proud of all our students. I have enjoyed watching them flourish during this four week program and cannot wait to see what the future has in store for them as they progress in the years ahead.”

The district said they are proud of all the campers who “accomplished so much this summer.” They said they’re thankful for the support of the entire music staff and to music educators and Tri-M members who “dedicated their time to make this a meaning and memorable experience for the elementary students.”