When the Macy’s Great American Band marches across your television screen while viewing the Thanksgiving Day parade, pay close attention to the piccolo players. Among them will be Massapequa High School junior Courtney Conkling.
She will be part of the only band in the parade that brings together young musical talent from schools across the country. About five students are selected from each state. How did she do it? She applied on the band’s website and sent a video of herself playing the piccolo. After more paperwork and an effort to raise about $1,500 for parade expenses, the rest is history.
Although the parade is on Thursday, Courtney will be there days before for rehearsals and a bit of sightseeing with other band members. During the parade, the band will play a New York-themed medley and “Dance with Me Tonight” by Ollie Murs.
“I’m really excited to be among musicians that are as dedicated and enthusiastic about music as I am,” said Courtney. “Music is my passion
.”
Courtney was named an All-State musician by the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) and has earned six All-County designations. She is a member of the Massapequa High School Marching Band, the Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band and plans to play in the Pit Orchestra for this year’s high school musical. Outside of school, she has been a member of the Gemini Youth Orchestra, which plays at Lincoln Center and other local venues, for the past five years.
“Courtney Conkling is one of the most motivated young ladies I have had the pleasure to work with,” said Massapequa High School Band Director Mark Stempel. “This young lady loves to learn and excels on her instrument.
In addition to music, Courtney carries a rigorous academic course load, including Advanced Placement (AP) classes in Physics, English Language Arts and U.S. History, and is on the Principal’s List for academic excellence. She competes in Odyssey of the Mind, which challenges students to creatively problem solve by completing a series of specific tasks, and helped bring her team to the state competition twice. She also took on the leadership role of Activities Coordinator for Student Council for two years.
–Submitted by Massapequa Public Schools
