For the second year in a row, Lexington High School hosted the Northeastern Senior District Festival, also known as Senior Districts. Students audition for a chance to perform at the event, one that involves several ensembles, including Concert Band, Orchestra, Jazz Big Band, and Chorus. Accepted musicians participated in three rehearsals in the days leading up to the concert on Jan. 12, 2025. 

Jessica Billings-White, one of the managers of Senior Districts and an orchestra teacher at LHS, believes that the festival provides a valuable opportunity for young musicians to improve their playing without a heavy time commitment.

“There are two rehearsals and a performance. For some busy families, this is a great extracurricular activity that not only improves their musicianship, but they also get to perform and rehearse with musicians from all over the Northeastern District,” Billings-White said.

Yaotong Zhang, a junior who played violin in the orchestra, found the audition process for the festival to be nerve-wracking, but worth it in the end.

“When you’re called up, you check in, go there, play a piece, play a scale, sight-read, and then come off… There’s always competition. [It’s] a little stressful,” Zhang said. 

Some students also found the festival very convenient due to it being held at LHS. Zhang said that he enjoyed being in a familiar environment.

“Me and a friend of mine, we planned meticulously on how to get some food at a nearby restaurant. And as soon as school ended, we ran out, got the food back, ate a little bit of it, rehearsed for a bit, then had our dinner break and ate. [It’s nice] being able to talk to your friends in that nice environment,” Zhang said. “It’s just nice to not move, not take a bus and just be there.”

Soham Padyana, a Senior District choir member, also enjoyed the experience of getting to sing with other talented musicians.

“[The festival] is a strong example where music brought people together because all around the state, there are people auditioning. The people who got in sort of learn the music on their own, and then come together and perform. It’s this really amazing feeling,” Padyana said.

However, for some participants, the journey continues. Students who earned qualifying scores had the opportunity to audition for the All-State festival on Jan. 25, 2025. 

Zhang, who was recommended to the festival, said he is thrilled for the chance to perform at All-States.

“[I’m excited about] performing at Symphony Hall, if I can make it. That’s always awesome,” Zhang said.