January 23, 2024
By BARTON HENLEY
Rutherford County Schools
Two Riverdale students have been selected as finalists to spend time in New York City at Carnegie Hall over five days next month.
Lexi Sells — who was selected to Riverdale honor choir as a freshman — said that she started choir in first grade.
“I’m really excited,” Sells said. “Being able to perform at Carnegie Hall is humbling, and it has really pushed me to build my confidence.”
Jameson Hiatt — a junior at Riverdale — said she started choir within the past couple of years.
“I love performing,” Hiatt said. “I do have stage fright in front of a big crowd but as soon as the music starts, I get really excited.”
Both students say their parents broke the exciting news to them after they received an email confirming they were selected.
Riverdale choir director Brenda Williams nominated both students for the performance.
“Ms. Williams has been really supportive,” Hiatt said. “I am not sure this would’ve happened without her.”
Performers will come from all around the world to sing at Carnegie Hall.
The students will perform under the direction of Matthew Brady from the University of Miami.
Brady conducts the Symphonic Choir and Bella Voce while teaching courses at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
The performance will take place on February 10, 2024.
For more information on the Honors Performance Series, click this link.