Two Herricks High School students have been named Nassau Region finalists in the PTA Reflections Program. Alyssa Samuels was recognized for her musical composition, “The Battle to Establish Ethos,” Isabella Schneiderman was honored for her choreographed contemporary dance piece, “I Was Here.” Their work has advanced to the New York State PTA for further judging with the prospect of reaching the national level and earning additional distinctions.
According to the National PTA Reflections Program, the theme for 2020-2021 is “I Matter Because….” Entrants submitted their completed works of art in categories of dance choreography, film production, literature, music composition, photography and visual arts.
Isabella has choreographed in the past, and last year won the New York State Award of Excellence and was named a National Finalist in the Reflections Contest. She has been dancing since age two and performs with two companies outside of school.
Alyssa learned to compose in ninth grade through the school’s STAC program and has continued to create new pieces since then. She is a vocalist and has been reading music since the third grade. A Tri-M member and NYSSMA participant, she also plays the viola and more recently, learned the piano to further complement her work. She has won other recognitions, including a scholarship to the USTAN summer camp for the arts.
