The Ridgefield High School Music Department is proud to announce that senior violist Matthew Uy is the December Student of the Month. Matt has become known as a dedicated musician and a natural leader here at RHS.
Matt was only 3 years old when he started to play the piano, inspired by his older siblings. Matt began taking piano lessons in first grade, and a few years later he picked up the violin too. As Matt made his way to Ridgefield High School, the orchestra program welcomed him with open arms. “I decided to focus on building my violin technique by finally taking private lessons and joining the orchestra program at RHS -- a decision I’ve never regretted,” The senior stated.
Matt has had quite a few roles both on-stage and behind the scenes, being the Cohort 2nd Violin Section Leader of the Symphonic Orchestra and the Principal 2nd Violin of Symphonic and Chamber. For Matt's senior year, he has been selected to be the Assistant Concertmaster of the Symphonic, and Concertmaster of the Chamber Orchestra. Matt even helped with mentoring programs and wrote articles monthly for the Ridgefield press and Hamlet Hub as the press secretary. “I hope that through its high standards, Orchestra will continue to inspire young musicians and members of the community in the same way that it inspired me when I was a freshman,” Matt commented.
Matt is the Assistant Concertmaster of the Western Connecticut Youth Orchestra this year and has participated in summer orchestras and Music Festivals. Matt even spreads the joy of music by organizing quartets for local nursing homes and weddings.
Apart from music, Matt is a member of the National Honor Society, a Class senator for Student Government, and a private tutor for biology and math. “There are not many kids who have worn as many hats in our program in its history,” comments RHS orchestra director Michael McNamara. “He fills so many roles and is always incredibly giving of his time because he loves our music department. We will need multiple people to fill his shoes after he graduates. In addition to that, he is one of the nicest and most positive human beings. We will miss him when he is gone. He is beyond worthy of this distinction. Thank you, Matt!”
Throughout his years at RHS, Matt has actively demonstrated leadership, perseverance, and a genuine passion for music, rewarding Matt with this recognition. “At RHS, we’re extremely fortunate to have a music program dedicated to excellence -- whether it be through the sophistication of our repertoire or the work ethic of our musicians,” explained Matt.
Matthew Uy is equipped to major in biochemistry in college next year while staying on a pre-med track. While in college, Matt hopes to continue maintaining his musical talents by performing in orchestras by joining clubs and college ensembles.
The RHS Music Department thanks Matt for his commitment to the musical program, and wishes him the brightest future in years to come.