Glimmerglass Festival Announces Local High School Scholarships

The Glimmerglass Festival honors high school musicians with its annual Music Student Rewards Program. The program celebrates excelling high school music students in Central New York by awarding them two tickets to a July performance at The Glimmerglass Festival, which offers new productions of opera and musical theater every summer in Cooperstown.

All area students involved with music are eligible for a nomination. The Glimmerglass Festival paused live performances this summer due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but has extended the opportunity for students to select a performance during the 2021 Festival.

This year, the Festival recognizes these young musicians from the region.

Alyssa Blanco, a senior at Unatego High School. Alyssa sings in the school’s Chorus, Vocal Ensemble, fall musical, and has sung in the Area All-County and Area All-State Choruses.

Peyton Darling, a senior at Schenevus Central School. Peyton performs with both the band and chorus, and has participated in Area All-State and All-County Band and Chorus.

Emily Klemish, a freshman at Downsville Central School. Emily performs in the school’s drama club and was nominated for extraordinary “enthusiasm and talent.”

Matthew Mosenson, a senior at Cherry Valley-Springfield Central School. Matthew is an active participant in the school’s choir program, jazz band, and school musicals.

Hunter Oldick, a senior at Richfield Springs Junior-Senior High School. Hunter regularly contributes to the music programs at Richfield Springs, and has been a member of the vocal, instrumental, and theater programs since sixth grade.

Dawson Rielly, a senior at Worcester Central School. Dawson has performed in the WCS ensembles since he was in fifth grade, and continually brings enthusiasm to his community.

Brandi Swisher, a senior at Charlotte Valley School. Brandi plays flute, was awarded the drum major position in marching band, and has attended the Area All-State and All-County Festivals.

Kayleigh Verspoor, a senior at Delaware Academy. Kayleigh sings soprano and will continue her studies at Houghton College in the fall.

Jesse Voltz, a freshman at Afton Central School. Jessie plays bassoon and hopes to continue her love of musical theater in the pit orchestra.

Jack Vunk, a senior at Edmeston Central School. Jack plays saxophone, is a recipient of the 2020 Clark Foundation Scholarship, and will continue his studies at SUNY Oswego in the fall.

Developing student curiosity toward and appreciation of the arts marks a key part of Glimmerglass’ mission.

“The Festival commends Central New York music educators for fostering the growth of these young musicians,” says Glimmerglass Artistic & General Director Francesca Zambello. “We welcome the opportunity to connect with these students and further their musical education.”