Abigail Rodriguez

Instruments you play/voice: I play the piano (9 yrs.), clarinet (7 yrs.), saxophone (3 yrs.), and flute (1 yr.)

Musical Ensemble(s) you have participated in and years of participation: I have participated in All-State, Area All-State, Suburban Council, Skidmore College concert band, Ballston Spa community band, and at the Saratoga High School symphonic band and jazz band.

Musical Awards/Recognition you have received: I received the Charles McCrossan music scholarship to promote lifelong learning. Additionally, I was Co-President of the Tri-M music honors society.

NYSMMA Participation/Level Achieved: Level 6 NYSSMA solo on bass clarinet and piano.

College you will be attending: SUNY Potsdam/Crane School of Music with an intended major of Music Education.

Future Career Plans/Hopes: I hope to one day be a woodwind specialist or get my Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) and become a wind ensemble conductor at a college.

How does this scholarship help you in the future: This scholarship will help me achieve my goals to become a music teacher and to teach others to love music like I do.

Advice for younger musicians in the district (elementary/middle school students): My advice to any younger musicians is keep practicing and don’t be afraid to get help if you are struggling. Also. take private lessons; they are awesome.

Fun Fact: I own six clarinets: 1 Eb soprano, 2Bb sopranos, 1 Eb alto, and 2 Bb bass clarinets.