FHS FRESHMAN TAKING WORLD-FAMOUS STAGE
“I am terrified and excited about being a part of this experience.”
That honest take on what’s happening in New York City this weekend comes from Freeman High School freshman Jocelyn Lee, who has been chosen to take part in the High School Honors Performance Series at Carnegie Hall. Lee will be a soprano when the Honors Concert Choir performs at the world-famous venue Sunday, Feb. 11.
The choir is limited to the highest-rated young performers from around the world.
Jocelyn and her mom, Jennifer, were scheduled to fly to New York City from Minneapolis Wednesday morning and will be joined by Jocelyn’s dad, Jacob, on Friday.
According to a press release from the High School Honors Performance Series, Lee was selected as a finalist in the esteemed choir based on a nomination, rigorous audition process and review by the Honors Selection Board.
“Acceptance to the elite group is a direct result of the talent, dedication and achievements demonstrated in their application and audition recording,” the press release says, noting that the chance to perform at Carnegie Hall symbolizes “the pinnacle of musical achievement.”
Lee will be joined by singers from around the world, including Guam, South Korea, New Zealand and Taiwan.
“Being selected to the Honors Performance Series is something each finalist should be extremely proud of accomplishing,” said Marion Gomez, music director for the Honors Performance Series. “We processed nearly 10,000 nominations this year and have selected the most talented student performers from around the world. Working with these conductors and performing at these renowned music halls is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that these musicians will never forget.”
The press release continues:
“Jocelyn has studied music for eight years and had performed with the Freeman Area Children’s choir and participated in her first All-State Chorus performance this year. She is very excited to meet new people on her trip to New York. She is most excited to see a Broadway show as part of her New York experience.”
The Honors Performance Series was created to showcase accomplished individual student performers on an international level by allowing them to study under master conductors and perform in world-renowned venues.
Iwona Lewter, the high school vocal instructor at Freeman Public Schools who nominated Joselyn, isn’t surprised she was named to the choir
“Nominating Jocelyn was a no-brainer for me,” Lewter said. “She has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to her artistry, consistently pouring her heart and soul into her performances. Jocelyn’s dedication to her craft has been evident since the beginning of her musical journey.
“Despite being only a freshman, she has already distinguished herself as a standout vocalist,” Lewter continued. “This opportunity to perform at Carnegie Hall is just the beginning of what could be a bright career in music. With her love for singing, work ethic and determination, I have no doubt that Jocelyn will continue to soar to greater heights in the world of music.”
