Ryan Dick, principal trumpet player and section leader for Churchville-Chili’s High School Wind Ensemble, was invited to perform in the National Association for Music Education’s (NAfME) prestigious 2021 All-Eastern Symphonic Band. Only 146 of the top high school musicians from the Northeast were chosen for this honor. He was also selected to participate in this year’s All-State band. Director of Fine Arts Jeffrey Smith said, “Ryan was accepted for both the All-State and All-Eastern based on his participation and exceptional performances at solo festivals throughout middle and high school.”
“Ryan has been in the Wind Ensemble since his sophomore year,” said music instructor Allison Chipman. “He has taken part in many All-County and Area All-State festivals. He performs in the Rochester Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, as well as with other extracurricular ensembles.”
Wesley Nance, the second trumpet with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, said, “Ryan is one of my favorite students at the Eastman Community Music School. His enthusiasm and curiosity are infectious, and he has made tremendous progress on the trumpet throughout his high school career, culminating in his selection for the RPYO, NY Conference All-State, and now All-Eastern. Kudos to Ryan for his impressive accomplishments!”
Ryan has played trumpet since fourth grade and also plays guitar and piano. He said, “My family has supported me throughout my musical journey, and I attribute a lot of my success to them. They have constantly pushed me forward to be the best I can. I would also credit my lesson teacher, Wes Nance, for helping me get better every week and pushing me to practice and audition for many groups.”
After graduation, Ryan plans to attend Calvin University in Michigan, majoring in computer science and data science. Outside of music, he loves to code, video edit, spend time with friends, and serve at his church. He said, “I hope to continue to play music my whole life and be able to play in groups after college.”
The NAfME All-Eastern Honors Ensembles consist of a symphonic band, orchestra, mixed chorus, treble chorus, and jazz ensemble. This year, students shared in a virtual weekend experience March 4 through 6 that included keynote speakers, masterclasses with professional musicians, and rehearsals with their conductors, as well as opportunities to network with colleges and universities. Musicians will individually record their performances from home, led virtually by their conductor. The recordings will be edited together to produce virtual ensembles for the concert performance. The concert will premiere on April 23 during the 57th NAfME Eastern Division Virtual In-Service Conference.
“My family was super happy to hear I made All-Eastern and said they can’t wait for the concert,” said Ryan. “I wasn’t exactly surprised I made it – I was more shocked. I never would have thought I would make All-Eastern for trumpet.”
Provided information
