Orchestra String Seniors 2021:
Janaia Amos (viola), Emily Cheltenham (violin), Magen Dewitt (violin), Shems Hamdan (cello), Grace Layman (violin),
Ella Marable (bass), Lillian Nash (bass), Keira Ondrus (violin), Anaiis Rios-Kasoga (violin) , Anita Sejdiu (violin),
Sarah Sheets (cello), Maria Skidmore (violin), Grace Thompson (violin), Iniya Umachandran (violin),
Lucille Wallace (cello), Ellie Wheeler (cello)
Janaia Amos (viola), Emily Cheltenham (violin), Magen Dewitt (violin), Shems Hamdan (cello), Grace Layman (violin),
Ella Marable (bass), Lillian Nash (bass), Keira Ondrus (violin), Anaiis Rios-Kasoga (violin) , Anita Sejdiu (violin),
Sarah Sheets (cello), Maria Skidmore (violin), Grace Thompson (violin), Iniya Umachandran (violin),
Lucille Wallace (cello), Ellie Wheeler (cello)
ELLIE WHEELER
CELLIST- SYMPHONIC ORCHESTRA
CELLIST- SYMPHONIC ORCHESTRA
Bio
Ellie is an 18 year old cellist in the ELHS Symphonic Orchestra. They started playing cello in 5th grade when there was the option to enter the music program at Glencairn Elementary, and has since experimented with other instruments including accordion, human voice, piano, and her sister's bass. He plans to continue minoring in music in college and hopefully beyond. In the course of high school with this interest shared in common with several friends, she has acquired an interest in musicology and studying the different musical systems throughout the world.
Ellie is an 18 year old cellist in the ELHS Symphonic Orchestra. They started playing cello in 5th grade when there was the option to enter the music program at Glencairn Elementary, and has since experimented with other instruments including accordion, human voice, piano, and her sister's bass. He plans to continue minoring in music in college and hopefully beyond. In the course of high school with this interest shared in common with several friends, she has acquired an interest in musicology and studying the different musical systems throughout the world.
What was your favorite orchestra memory/ experience? My favorite orchestra memory so far was probably Night Out in my freshman year when I played Over the Rainbow with some other band and orchestra kids. What was your favorite or most memorable concert?
I think I enjoyed pretty much all the Collage concerts in general a lot. |
What was your favorite piece of music that we performed? Bacchanale by Saint-Saens, by far. What are your plans for next year?
My plan for next year is ideally to major in inorganic chemistry at Wayne State University. |
Is there anything else you want to share?
Thank you for all you do, Mr. Rosin.
INIYA UMACHANDRAN
VIOLINIST- SYMPHONIC ORCHESTRA
ENCORE STRINGS
Bio
Iniya Umachandran has been playing the violin since she was 6 years old. Now having played the violin for about 10 years she has gotten the incredible opportunity to experience playing in the East Lansing middle school orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, Symphonic Orchestra, and Encore Strings. Outside of Orchestra, she loves to run, dance Bharatanatyam (Indian classical dance), hang out with friends and family, travel the world, and work at MSU Spartan Genetix on Cancer Research. Iniya is also graduating a year early!
Iniya Umachandran has been playing the violin since she was 6 years old. Now having played the violin for about 10 years she has gotten the incredible opportunity to experience playing in the East Lansing middle school orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, Symphonic Orchestra, and Encore Strings. Outside of Orchestra, she loves to run, dance Bharatanatyam (Indian classical dance), hang out with friends and family, travel the world, and work at MSU Spartan Genetix on Cancer Research. Iniya is also graduating a year early!
What was your favorite orchestra memory/ experience? The Middle School Chicago trip (2018) and whenever Mr. Rosin would throw his baton when conducting during concerts! |
What was your favorite piece of music that we performed? It is so hard to choose one, but it is tied between Carpe Diem and Air and Caprice. (If we ever came around to playing Post Malone though, it definitely would have been that :) |
What was your favorite or most memorable concert?
Collage 2019 |
What are your plans for next year?
I am set to attend Michigan State University next year! I plan to major in Physiology at Lyman Briggs, and minor in Data Analytics. Being in the Honors College, and getting even more involved in biomedical research, are also things that I am looking forward to taking part in. Go Green!!! |
Is there anything else you want to share?
I would love to thank Mr. Rosin for putting up with me since 7th grade! I would love to thank my private lesson teacher, Tigran Shiganyan, as well! Both of these wonderful teachers have helped me immensely in my musical journey. The friends I have made in my time, being in East Lansing Orchestra program, are genuinely some of the best people I have ever met. I loved being an Orchdork!
I would love to thank Mr. Rosin for putting up with me since 7th grade! I would love to thank my private lesson teacher, Tigran Shiganyan, as well! Both of these wonderful teachers have helped me immensely in my musical journey. The friends I have made in my time, being in East Lansing Orchestra program, are genuinely some of the best people I have ever met. I loved being an Orchdork!
GRACE THOMPSON
VIOLINIST- SYMPHONIC ORCHESTRA
ASSISTANT CONCERTMASTER- ENCORE STRINGS
GRACE THOMPSON
VIOLINIST- SYMPHONIC ORCHESTRA
ASSISTANT CONCERTMASTER- ENCORE STRINGS
Bio
Grace has been playing the violin for 8 years and the viola for 3 years. She is currently the Assistant Concertmaster of Encore Strings, participates is the Mid-Michigan Youth Symphony, and volunteers her time teaching violin to 6th grade students. She has attended MASTA Strings Camp for 5 years and Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp for 4 years. Outside of orchestra, Grace is involved in Students for Females in STEM, musical theatre, National Honor Society, and varsity cheerleading.
Grace has been playing the violin for 8 years and the viola for 3 years. She is currently the Assistant Concertmaster of Encore Strings, participates is the Mid-Michigan Youth Symphony, and volunteers her time teaching violin to 6th grade students. She has attended MASTA Strings Camp for 5 years and Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp for 4 years. Outside of orchestra, Grace is involved in Students for Females in STEM, musical theatre, National Honor Society, and varsity cheerleading.
What was your favorite orchestra memory/ experience? The Disney trip probably would have been my favorite orchestra experience, but the Cleveland trip was still very fun! Particularly, I enjoyed seeing the Cleveland Orchestra perform in Severance Hall. What was your favorite or most memorable concert?
The Michigan Music Conference in Grand Rapids was my favorite performance. |
What was your favorite piece of music that we performed? I enjoyed playing Of Glorious Plumage by Richard Meyer! What are your plans for next year?
I will be attending the University of Michigan this fall to study Earth and Environmental Sciences. I plan on getting involved in orchestra, musical theatre, and/or a cappella in college. |
Is there anything else you want to share?
I would like to thank Mr. Rosin, Mrs. Vanator, Mr. Larzelere, Mr. Cadena, Anna Kortemeyer, and every other music teacher that I have worked with throughout the years for their encouragement and hard work. I would also like to thank my family for attending all of the orchestra concerts and always supporting me.
MARIA SKIDMORE
CONCERTMASTER- SYMPHONIC ORCHESTRA, ENCORE STRINGS
Bio
Maria Skidmore is an 18 year old musician, producer, and songwriter. She started violin lessons at MSU Community Music School at the age of 4 as well as piano lessons at the age of 7. Maria has been principle chair for Chamber Orchestra 2017-2018, Symphonic orchestra 2019-2021, and Encore 2020-2021. She's been apart of the MSBOA All -State and MYAF Honors Orchestra in 2019; including Mid Michigan Symphony Orchestra since 7th grade. Maria will be attending Michigan Sate University and MSU-College of Music this upcoming fall and is excited for to grow in this new season of life in her musical career.
Maria Skidmore is an 18 year old musician, producer, and songwriter. She started violin lessons at MSU Community Music School at the age of 4 as well as piano lessons at the age of 7. Maria has been principle chair for Chamber Orchestra 2017-2018, Symphonic orchestra 2019-2021, and Encore 2020-2021. She's been apart of the MSBOA All -State and MYAF Honors Orchestra in 2019; including Mid Michigan Symphony Orchestra since 7th grade. Maria will be attending Michigan Sate University and MSU-College of Music this upcoming fall and is excited for to grow in this new season of life in her musical career.
What was your favorite orchestra memory/ experience? Each memory has been special. The annual Collage and All-State, with Encore, in 2019, are two of my favorite memories. What was your favorite or most memorable concert?
My first collage concert was one of my most memorable concerts because I never experienced a performance at such a high caliber before with so many great people creating music together. |
What was your favorite piece of music that we performed? I enjoyed all the pieces we played for collage such as Interstellar, Beatles Medley, Gershwin Medley, Star Wars Medley, Indian Jones, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Holberg Suite Op 40, -1 by Greig. What are your plans for next year?
I am planning on attending MSU (College of Music) with a major in Violin Performance. Her minor is undecided but it might include sound engineering, film scoring, music theory, composition, or whatever might peak her interest. |
Is there anything else you want to share?
Thank you to all the family and friends who have deeply impacted and shaped my life. Thank you Ms. Anne (violin teacher) Ms. Deb (piano teacher), and the rest of the Suzuki/East Lansing/Bath family for encouraging me in my musical endeavors throughout the years you've known me. You truly have made a huge impact in my life and I couldn't ask for a better family.
Is there anything else you want to share?
Thank you to all the family and friends who have deeply impacted and shaped my life. Thank you Ms. Anne (violin teacher) Ms. Deb (piano teacher), and the rest of the Suzuki/East Lansing/Bath family for encouraging me in my musical endeavors throughout the years you've known me. You truly have made a huge impact in my life and I couldn't ask for a better family.
KEIRA ONDRUS
VIOLINIST- SYMPHONIC ORCHESTRA, ENCORE STRINGS
FRONT ENSEMBLE- MARCHING BAND
Bio
Keira grew up surrounded by music, wither it was jamming in her dad's studio above the garage, or waking up to Queen every morning. When given an option in 5th grade for what instrument to pick, she choose violin. She started private lessons around the end of 7th grade with Lauren Hansen. In high school she joined Encore strings and the Marching Band where she plays percussion in the front ensemble. In terms of music, in her free time she enjoys writing music (while not the best at it) along with collecting random instruments such as a melodica, otamatone, and an ocarina.
Keira grew up surrounded by music, wither it was jamming in her dad's studio above the garage, or waking up to Queen every morning. When given an option in 5th grade for what instrument to pick, she choose violin. She started private lessons around the end of 7th grade with Lauren Hansen. In high school she joined Encore strings and the Marching Band where she plays percussion in the front ensemble. In terms of music, in her free time she enjoys writing music (while not the best at it) along with collecting random instruments such as a melodica, otamatone, and an ocarina.
What was your favorite orchestra memory/ experience? Traveling and performing at the Michigan Music Conference with Encore strings. What was your favorite or most memorable concert?
Playing interstellar with the video was really memorable. |
What was your favorite piece of music that we performed? The Collage concert where a group of us played the Mii Jazzy video game medley. What are your plans for next year?
I plan attending LCC for Computer Science then transferring to MSU. I also plan on minoring in Music. |
Is there anything else you want to share?
I just want to say how much I appreciate the music program here at ELHS and the people I've met through it.
LILLIAN NASH
BASSIST- SYMPHONIC ORCHESTRA
Bio
Lillian Nash first participated in East Lansing's orchestra program in 5th grade on cello, but she switched to the double bass in 6th grade. Outside of orchestra, Lillian draws, paints, plays with her dogs, and practices the harmonica.
Lillian Nash first participated in East Lansing's orchestra program in 5th grade on cello, but she switched to the double bass in 6th grade. Outside of orchestra, Lillian draws, paints, plays with her dogs, and practices the harmonica.
What was your favorite orchestra memory/ experience?
In orchestra Mr. Rosin would sometimes get sidetracked and go on rants. I learned a lot about watches, the 80s and 90s, daycare, and so many other topics. What was your favorite or most memorable concert?
The Cleveland trip concert. |
What was your favorite piece of music that we performed?
I loved playing “The Final Countdown” and “Star Wars”. What are your plans for next year?
I plan on attending LCC. |
Is there anything else you want to share?
I want to thank my family for encouraging me with all of my endeavors, both musical and academic.
GRACE LAYMAN
VIOLINIST- SYMPHONIC ORCHESTRA
ENCORE STRINGS
Bio
Grace knew that she wanted to play the violin before she even went to pick out an instrument. She has been playing it since the 5th grade, and has enjoyed her time being a part of Chamber Orchestra, Symphonic Orchestra, and the Encore Strings program. Besides the violin, she also danced for 8 years and became a member of the National Honor Society her junior year.
Grace knew that she wanted to play the violin before she even went to pick out an instrument. She has been playing it since the 5th grade, and has enjoyed her time being a part of Chamber Orchestra, Symphonic Orchestra, and the Encore Strings program. Besides the violin, she also danced for 8 years and became a member of the National Honor Society her junior year.
What was your favorite orchestra memory/ experience? Anytime Encore Strings played in the locker commons before winter break. What was your favorite or most memorable concert?
Freshmen year Collage. |
What was your favorite piece of music that we performed? Of Glorious Plumage by Richard Meyer (performed in Encore). What are your plans for next year?
I plan to attend the University of Michigan to major in psychology. |
Is there anything else you want to share?
I would like to thank Mr. Rosin for being one of my favorite and most interesting teachers :)
SHEMS HAMDAN
CELLIST- SYMPHONIC ORCHESTRA
ENCORE STRINGS
Bio
Shems began playing the cello in fifth grade at Glencairn Elementary School. She was in all three of the orchestras offered at ELHS (Symphonic, Encore, and Chamber), so she was able to experience all levels of difficulties when it comes to the pieces. The cello has taught her to be patient and face challenges with confidence rather than fear. Shems can take what she has learned from the cello and apply these concepts to her everyday life.
In addition, Shems is part of the ELHS varsity tennis and XC team. Also, she is happy to be the President of both the Culture Awareness Club and the Muslim Student Association. Shems is also the secretary of the National HS. Finally, since she was a little girl Shems has been volunteering at Herbert Herman Cancer Center which she considers to be an honor
Shems began playing the cello in fifth grade at Glencairn Elementary School. She was in all three of the orchestras offered at ELHS (Symphonic, Encore, and Chamber), so she was able to experience all levels of difficulties when it comes to the pieces. The cello has taught her to be patient and face challenges with confidence rather than fear. Shems can take what she has learned from the cello and apply these concepts to her everyday life.
In addition, Shems is part of the ELHS varsity tennis and XC team. Also, she is happy to be the President of both the Culture Awareness Club and the Muslim Student Association. Shems is also the secretary of the National HS. Finally, since she was a little girl Shems has been volunteering at Herbert Herman Cancer Center which she considers to be an honor
What was your favorite orchestra memory/ experience? My favorite experience was the first time I participated in a Collage concert. There was so much going on at once and it was extremely fun. My freshman year we played the Beatles Medley. What was your favorite or most memorable concert?
Performing with the Encore Strings at Michigan Music Conference in Grand Rapids. |
What was your favorite piece of music that we performed? The Beatles medley. What are your plans for next year?
I plan on attending the Honors College and Lyman Briggs at MSU (while possibly minoring in Arabic). |
Is there anything else you want to share?
I would like to thank everyone in the ELHS orchestra and all the parents who were constantly helping the students. I am grateful for having the opportunity to play the cello and hope to keep playing in the future. Also, I would like to thank Mr. Rosin for constantly being patient with all the students and helping us become the players we are today.
EMILY CHELTENHAM
Violinist- Symphonic Orchestra
Encore Strings
Bio
Emily has played the violin since 5th grade. She joined Encore Strings her freshman year and has been a member of Symphonic Orchestra since sophomore year. She is a member of National Honor Society, Students for Gender Equality, and the Student Mental Health Committee.
Emily has played the violin since 5th grade. She joined Encore Strings her freshman year and has been a member of Symphonic Orchestra since sophomore year. She is a member of National Honor Society, Students for Gender Equality, and the Student Mental Health Committee.
What was your favorite orchestra memory/ experience? The orchestra trip to Cleveland. What was your favorite or most memorable concert?
Our Collage in 2017. |
What was your favorite piece of music that we performed? Danse Bacchanale -Saint Saens What are your plans for next year?
I will be attending Northwestern University. |
Is there anything else you want to share?
Thank you to the whole East Lansing Orchestra family for being so amazing!
JANAIA AMOS
VIOLIST- SYMPHONIC ORCHESTRA
COLOR GUARD
Bio
Janaia has been playing the viola since 4th grade after being introduced to the viola and classical music at the Michigan State University Community School of Music. With her ability to pick up material quickly, she found a growing love and passion for the viola and joined the East Lansing Orchestra in 5th grade. Some of here favorite experiences were playing cute duets with her friends in middle school, solo and ensemble, and orchestra festival. Because she loves orchestra so much, Janaia hopes to continue with music in college. Outside of orchestra, Janaia has participated in the East Lansing Marching Band Color Guard since freshman year including one year of the Impulse Winterguard. She loves listening to music, watching Netflix, and endless K-Dramas. She will never forget her time in orchestra because that's where all her memories are and she wouldn't have it any other way.
Janaia has been playing the viola since 4th grade after being introduced to the viola and classical music at the Michigan State University Community School of Music. With her ability to pick up material quickly, she found a growing love and passion for the viola and joined the East Lansing Orchestra in 5th grade. Some of here favorite experiences were playing cute duets with her friends in middle school, solo and ensemble, and orchestra festival. Because she loves orchestra so much, Janaia hopes to continue with music in college. Outside of orchestra, Janaia has participated in the East Lansing Marching Band Color Guard since freshman year including one year of the Impulse Winterguard. She loves listening to music, watching Netflix, and endless K-Dramas. She will never forget her time in orchestra because that's where all her memories are and she wouldn't have it any other way.
What was your favorite orchestra memory/ experience? All of Mr. Rosin's stories that took up class time and bonding every Monday with Mr. Rosin over the latest episode from Game of Thrones. What was your favorite or most memorable concert?
My freshman year Collage Concert because I really enjoyed the Beatles Medley. |
What was your favorite piece of music that we performed? It would have to be either Baccahanale by Saint-Saens or The Idylls of Pegasus by Meyer. What are your plans for next year?
I will be attending The University Of Michigan - Flint as a Human Biology Major on a Pre-Dentistry Concentration and as a Minor in Psychology and Music. |
Is there anything else you want to share?
I would like to thank my lovely mom for being at every performance and being my number one supporter. I would also like to thank Mr. Rosin for showing me a different side of music, how to enjoy it, and for wanting the best for everyone in our orchestra. I would also like to thank Mr. L for pushing the band and color guard to be our best and give exceptional performances.
I would like to thank my lovely mom for being at every performance and being my number one supporter. I would also like to thank Mr. Rosin for showing me a different side of music, how to enjoy it, and for wanting the best for everyone in our orchestra. I would also like to thank Mr. L for pushing the band and color guard to be our best and give exceptional performances.