Music concert at Darien HS featured original student compositions

The 16th annual Darien Young Composers Concert held at Darien High School (DHS) this month featured the original musical compositions of 51 talented student composers from throughout the district.

The young composers, ranging in age from kindergarten through grade 12, had an opportunity to meet and ask questions of guest composer Dr. Jessica Rudman from the Hartt School of Music at the University of Hartford. The students also received comments from Dr. Rudman on each of their compositions.

Director of Music Rick Sadlon said this opportunity was started to reinforce the K-12 Music curriculum performance standards, and to give students a public forum to present their original music. The student compositions ranged from solo instrumental and vocal compositions to rock bands and string and brass ensembles.

Students had to work hard to prepare for the concert, including coordinating with their peers to rehearse, said Sadlon.

“The students use their music to express themselves and bring their unique message to the world,” said Sadlon. “The entire process is based on students being motivated to create, collaborate and present something they feel passionate about sharing.  When our students are motivated they achieve amazing levels of musicianship.”