Susquehanna Valley High School senior Elizabeth Zelenyak has been selected to the All-National Honors Band by the National Association for Music Education, the national organization that encompases the New York State School Music Association or NYSSMA. This is the first time a Susquehanna Valley musician has been selected for this national honor.
Elizabeth Zelenyak is a driven, motivated senior in the SV High School Concert Band. She has performed at All-County, Area All-State, and All-State festivals as the principal clarinet performer for the past 5 years. At Susquehanna Valley, she is the clarinet section leader, and has performed in Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, and Full Orchestra. In addition, she is the principal clarinet in the Binghamton Youth Symphony Orchestra.
As the world began shutting down due to the pandemic, Elizabeth took the initiative to prepare an audition video for the All-Nationals Honors Band, spending hours preparing and recording the music, and submitting it to the National Association for Music Education.
"I am incredibly proud of Elizabeth, and the tenacity and dedication it took for her to reach this achievement," said SV High School band director and teacher Meggan Olds. "Her beautiful gift of music, and her hard work and persistence to keep growing, are truly remarkable!" The All-Nationals program brings the top musicians from each All-State festival to Orlando in November of every other year. During this event, the students work with top international conductors to prepare and perform challenging, moving music. In addition, they attend leadership seminars and social events, allowing them to meet fellow student-performers from across the United States.The national gathering event was to take place in November at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. Unfortunately, the in-person event has now been cancelled due to the pandemic, but they are working to plan a virtual event for these incredible students. More information can be found HERE.