One of the most extraordinary sounds in any orchestra comes from the french horn----and Brockport High School senior Mariah Holt delivers! She says, "I have played the french horn since fourth grade, so nine years, I think! It's just a great way to express yourself. It's so universal and you can convey emotions without words. It's just a good outlet." Mariah leads by example at Brockport. She plays in the school concert band, the wind ensemble, and two jazz groups. And she's one of the select young musicians from the region to participate in the Rochester Philharmonic Youth Orchestra. "The RPYO is just a great atmosphere," she says, "and the level of playing just really reminds you that you have to bump up your game a little bit to give a great performance." "She's looked up to and respected for her attitude, her commitment to the program, and is just all around a good person," says Brockport High School music teacher Shawn Halquist. Mariah next heads to Ohio State University to study music education. It's a natural progression for a musician who's already seen as a leader, a role model, and a talent deserving of the spotlight.
