The Princeton Music Department continued a long-standing tradition on January 22, hosting its Senior Solo Recital at Matthews Auditorium. The evening celebrated the musical achievements of Princeton’s senior performers and highlighted a tradition in the district’s arts program since the 1970s.
Family members, friends, educators, and community supporters gathered at Matthews Auditorium for a night of exceptional performances by students from across the music department. Each senior soloist performed a carefully prepared work, demonstrating years of dedication, artistic growth, and musical excellence.
The program featured a wide range of instruments and musical styles. Hannah Bayrak performed Divertimento in D by Haydn on cello, while Lucas Patterson presented Adagio and Tarantella by Cavallini on clarinet. Victoria Smith delivered two standout performances—Bach’s Concerto No. 1 in A minor on violin and Rimsky-Korsakov’s Flight of the Bumblebee on piano.
Additional performances included Ella Janssens on xylophone performing No Soup for You by Houllif, Vadin Chilel-Romera singing Britten’s The Sally Gardens as a tenor soloist, and Paytn DePeel performing Les Berceaux by Fauré as a soprano. Violinists Lillian Edmiston and Katelynn Jones showcased works by Kreisler and Vivaldi, respectively, while Leah Emery performed Poulenc’s Sonata on flute.
The recital also highlighted the collaborative nature of music education at Princeton. Students were supported by accompanists Harry Robinson, Suzanne Robinson, and Mayde Robertson, as well as private lesson teachers who have guided their musical development throughout their high school careers.
In addition to honoring the seniors’ accomplishments, the recital served as preparation for upcoming performances at the Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA) District 14 High School Solo Competition, where many of the students will perform the same works for adjudication.
The Senior Solo Recital remains a cornerstone of Princeton’s music program, celebrating tradition, excellence, and the dedication of students and educators alike. The evening concluded with applause, refreshments provided by the Princeton Music Boosters, and well-wishes for the senior soloists as they prepare to take the next steps in their musical journeys.