On April 13-14th, high-school band students throughout all of Monmouth and Ocean county auditioned for the All-Shore Symphonic Band. Hundreds of instrumentalists sought out for a spot in the distinguished ensemble, and these successful auditionees included students from Freehold Township.  

While there is no All-Shore Symphonic Band concert this year, FTHS’ very own broke more records, with having the most accepted students in the Freehold Regional High School District accepted into this prestigious band. Sixteen were accepted, and five were placed as their section’s principal, or best, player. When additionally considering the All-Shore Jazz Band inductees from FTHS as well, Township is home to the most All-Shore instrumentalists in the Shore Conference. Here’s the full list of students from Mr. Gattsek, our school’s director: 

“Jessica Hakanson – Principal Flute – best in the shore for the 2nd year in a row!, Jessica was also the top scoring piccolo!

Andrew Salaru – Principal Bassoon – best in the shore…top scoring for the second year in a row!

Taylor Traynor – Clarinet – #2 in the shore

Daniel Ehling – Clarinet

Nicole Arizapana – Bass Clarinet

Lianna Augusto – Bass Clarinet – #2 in the shore

Justin Morgan – Principal Soprano Saxophone – best in the shore

Aaron Stern – Principal Tenor Saxophone – best in the shore for the 2nd year in a row.

Brian Yaniro – Trumpet

Nancy Armstrong – French Horn

Douglas Luke – Trombone – #4 in the shore

Jacob Goetke – Trombone – #3 in the shore

Anna DePass – Tuba – #4 in the shore

Jason  Feldman – Tuba – #2 in the shore

Christopher Magsino – Principal Battery Percussion – #1 in the shore!

John Hayward – Battery Percussion – #3 in the shore!”

Even through a pandemic, the tradition of excellence that Township band members hold continues to thrive, which is such a special thing. The sixteen individuals who got in aren’t just talented, but they show expertise, dedication, and discipline. The talent that Patriots hold perseveres and transcends all challenges, even a pandemic. Congratulations to all of the students accepted into the ensemble and continue to make your school proud!