Melissa Neyer and her high school orchestra students recently visited Michael Caprino’s Park Avenue Elementary and Edison Elementary orchestra students.

What began as a simple conversation between Caprino and Neyer during the White Plains Orchestra Festival turned into an enriching experience filled with music, mentorship, and a shared enthusiasm for orchestral music.

“The goal was to foster inspiration and connection between the different levels,” said Caprino.

The high school students not only performed for the elementary students but also shared snacks and personal experiences, offering insight into their musical journeys. A highlight of the day was the group rehearsal workshop, where all the students came together to work on the elementary school repertoire for the upcoming district concert. Conducted by both Caprino and Neyer, this collaborative session allowed the younger musicians to receive direct guidance and feedback from more experienced players, providing a unique and motivating learning experience.

Traditionally, the district concert has served as a culminating event where all three levels—elementary, middle, and high school—come together to perform. However, due to the growing size of the instrumental music program, this tradition has been restructured. As a result, the elementary students were not going to have the opportunity to perform alongside their older peers in the same way. The workshop was designed to bridge that gap, offering elementary students a glimpse into the future and instilling excitement for what lies ahead in Port Chester’s music program.

The impact of this experience has already been felt. “Many of my students have expressed how motivated they now feel to practice ahead of our March 19th concert,” said Caprino.

This collaborative effort demonstrates the power of shared learning and the district's commitment to ensuring that its youngest musicians remain excited and dedicated to their growth.

Date Added: 3/19/2025