Earlier this semester, zero band sessions on Mondays for the Band Program took on a new purpose as Jazz Band rehearsals were temporarily paused to provide dedicated support for students preparing for The New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) solo evaluations. Under the leadership of band director Thomas LaRocca, these sessions aim to give students extra time and guidance to select and practice their pieces.

In NYSSMA Majors competitions, large ensembles perform multiple songs of varying difficulty and are given a rating (bronze, silver, or gold) based on factors such as blend and accuracy. Solo evaluations, however, are performed by one person to judge the skill level of the single performer. Soloists may have to perform scales, sight read, or perform full songs depending on the level of difficulty.

Mr. LaRocca said the shift was not meant to replace Jazz Band, but rather to make himself more accessible to students for one-on-one music tutoring. “If I’m gonna ask students to do something that is extracurricular, I want to make sure I make myself available,” he said. He said it was a practical time to offer additional NYSSMA support because the THHS Jazz Band did not have immediate performances throughout the year.

The sessions initially drew a large number of students, though attendance has fluctuated as schedules shifted since the beginning of the school year. Still, Mr. LaRocca noted that the goal was to create a consistent space for preparation especially for students who do not have access to private lessons. “I’m a resource. I’m a trained, certified adjudicator, so I know what they’re looking for,” he said.

For many students, NYSSMA preparation can be both demanding and rewarding. Junior Natalia Pizczatowaski, a member of the Jazz Band, said the Monday sessions have been helpful overall, but acknowledged the trade-off.

She said that the sessions have been helpful for preparation, but they hinder the entire ensemble’s practice time. Despite this, she emphasized the importance of the evaluation experience, noting that “when you do well and you get a good score, both you and your bandmates are happy.”

Similarly, sophomore Dean Saghafi, member of both the jazz and wind ensembles, found the sessions beneficial, and he said the extra time made it easier to choose music and prepare without interrupting his regular classes. He added that his past NYSSMA majors experience was “really fun,” especially performing alongside peers and celebrating their achievements.

For students with limited availability, such as sophomore Alexis Euginio, the timing of the rehearsals made support more accessible. “[When I am] waking up early for the practice session with the questions I have to ask still fresh in my mind, I find it efficient for keeping track of everything and helping me stay organized,” she said, explaining that her after-school schedule often prevents her from seeking extra help later in the day. 

Beyond technical preparation, Mr. LaRocca discussed the broader purpose of these sessions. This year, he offered the option of attending evaluations as a small group in lieu of solo evaluations, highlighting the importance of collaboration in music. “Music making is an inherently communal activity,” he said. “The more I can encourage students to make music together, the better.” He added that working with others helps students build accountability. 

This year’s Majors approach builds on years of growth within the program. Former band director Kevin Heathwood reflected on the ensemble’s long term development, describing how the group progressed from a bronze score in 2018 to earning gold with distinction ratings in recent years. “When you have a good team, you can get anything done,” said Mr. Heathwood.

Mr. LaRocca hopes that students take away more than just strong NYSSMA scores. He said the experience is meant to create lasting memories and deepen students’ connection to music. “They’ll remember […] practicing together, and those experiences are really positive,” he said.