Parrott students chosen for All State Orchestra

Parrott orchestra students Carmala VanFosson and Gabe Steinbaker have been selected for this year’s All-State Orchestra. Submitted photo.

Parrott Academy fifth grader Carmala VanFosson and senior Gabe Steinbaker have been selected for this year’s American String Teachers Association All-State Orchestra in Concord. They will join other 5th  through 12th graders from across the state on October 18th and 19th to rehearse and perform in a single large orchestra.

Carmala, who lives in Ayden, began studying violin at age four and currently plays with the Parrott 4th/5th grade orchestra. She prepared a video audition tape for the All-State Orchestra selection committee. “I’m excited to be chosen,” she said, “because I get to be with so many other violin players.” Her mother, Eulalia VanFosson, has headed the Parrott orchestra program since 2006. 

Gabe Steinbaker from Grimesland plays viola in the Parrott high school orchestra and has performed in school concerts and the school musical.  Both he and Carmala look forward to working with guest conductor Kirt Mosier, who has led international orchestras and won two national composition awards.