Junior Maria Jay has been playing the french horn since she was in fifth grade, and she was also involved in the violin and trumpet during her time in elementary school.

Jay is currently a part of Symphonic Band at the high school, and will be a part of both symphonic and concert band in the coming school year. In addition, she is presently enrolled in Theatre Arts III and played in the pit orchestra for this year’s musical, Curtains.

While she thinks she will be pursuing international business rather than a music career, she still hopes to continue with music as a hobby in college and beyond.

Maria credits some of her teachers for inspiring her music, saying, “I was given a lot of encouragement from Mrs. Skilone, who teaches at Neil Armstrong Middle School, and I am able to succeed and grow as a musician more every day through Mr. Derby and Mr. Thompson.”

Jay was recently given the opportunity to travel to Belgium, The Netherlands, and England to play with the Pittsburgh Youth Philharmonic Orchestra. Additionally, she participated in District Band in both 6th and 8th grade.

If you are a serious musician and would like to be featured as “Student Musician of the Week,” email [email protected] for more information.