Young musicians from Rochester City Schools prepare for an unforgettable concert with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra

Rochester, New York – Students from the Rochester City School District (RCSD) are preparing for a once-in-a-lifetime experience as they perform alongside members of the renowned Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO). This special Side-by-Side Concert, a collaboration with ROCmusic, will take place on Wednesday, April 2, at 7 p.m. at the Edgerton R-Center, showcasing the incredible talents of young musicians from several RCSD schools.

The event will feature students from Francis Parker School No. 23, John James Audubon School No. 33, Austin Steward Elementary School No. 46, Frank Fowler Dow School No. 52, and School of the Arts. These students, who have dedicated hours to rehearsing, will share the stage with professional musicians, gaining invaluable experience and inspiration.

One of the evening’s highlights will be a special solo performance by Peyton Crony, a senior at School of the Arts and an accomplished violist. A proud ROCmusic alum, Peyton currently serves as the principal violist for the Rochester Philharmonic Youth Orchestra (RPYO) and has recently earned a coveted spot in an all-state orchestra. His journey from student to standout performer is a testament to the impact of music education and dedication.

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The lineup of participating students includes:

Francis Parker School No. 23:

• Cleo Bearden, violin
• Emery Butterfield, violin
• Emmy Osuch, violin
• Liza Osuch, violin

John James Audubon School No. 33:

• Elson Di Fiore, cello
• Milo Di Fiore, violin

Austin Steward Elementary School No. 46:

• Isabella Reichman, violin

Frank Fowler Dow School No. 52:

• Isaac Hetherington, violin

School of the Arts:

• Abrehet Doris-Eaton, cello
• Island Miles, violin
• Isaac Weaver, cello
• Leo Weaver, cello

The students have been working diligently under the guidance of RPO Assistant Conductor Jherrard Hardeman, who also serves as the Music Director of the RPYO. His expertise and mentorship have played a key role in preparing the young musicians for this significant event.

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For many of these students, performing alongside members of the RPO is a dream come true. It offers a rare opportunity to learn directly from seasoned professionals, refine their skills, and experience the thrill of live performance in a professional setting.

ROCmusic, an initiative committed to making music education accessible to all students, has been instrumental in fostering young musical talent in Rochester. By providing instruments, lessons, and performance opportunities, the program continues to nurture the next generation of musicians and inspire a lifelong love for music.

As the students take the stage tonight, they will not only showcase their individual talents but also demonstrate the power of collaboration, mentorship, and community support in the arts. This concert is more than just a performance—it is a celebration of dedication, growth, and the transformative impact of music education.

Don’t miss the chance to witness this extraordinary event and support these young musicians as they embark on an unforgettable journey with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra.