Ansonia student selected to perform with All-State Orchestra

Jonathan Bustamante

ANSONIA – Ansonia High School senior Jonathan Bustamante, a percussionist, is the school's first All-State Orchestra member.

He will perform in a concert in Hartford with his peers on May 2 at the Connecticut Convention Center.

Jonathan has been playing since he was four years old, auditioned for All-State Saturday at North Haven High School. 

He was selected for the Southern Region orchestra this past fall, which made him eligible for All-State. 

“He is extremely talented and is not afraid to work hard,” said Maria Tangredi, his music teacher and band director. “He has an unrivaled work ethic.” 

She noted that in addition to preparing a piece for the snare drum, he had to demonstrate fluency in percussion rudiments, and technique on bass drum, tambourine, and cymbals.

Nearly 10 years ago an Ansonia High student was selected for All-State for chorus, but Jonathan is the first from Ansonia to make the orchestra. 

He said his parents, who still live in Ecuador, are proud of him. Jonathan left Ecuador nearly two years ago, moving in with his uncle in Ansonia and learning a new language while refining his musical talents. He said he is “excited, not nervous” about his upcoming performance in May.

Students selected for All-State will spend two days (April 30 and May 1) rehearsing for the concert and enjoying performances in the evenings. More information about the program is available at http://allstatefestival.wix.com/ctallstate.

Jonathan said he took his SATs on Saturday – hours prior to auditioning for All-State. He is preparing to audition for the music program at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia and is also considering attending Western Connecticut State University.

This is a press release from Ansonia Public Schools.

Congratulations to Jonathan on his achievement. He demonstrates the value of hard work and dedication!