Brianne Bennett Finds Her Niche
Brianne Bennett's long educational journey has been an interesting one. The senior went to kindergarten at Washington Primary School and then left the district for the next six years, before returning as a seventh grader and later finding her niche in Huntington High School's talented Class of 2013.
Ms. Bennett is closely associated with Huntington's music program. She's interning with high school choral director Veronica Mainville and was voted Most Musical by her classmates. The teenager said that being in the school musical each spring has been among the highlights of her high school years.
Huntington's a cappella singing group has become an important part of Ms. Bennett's life. The a cappella group sings without musical accompaniment. During her freshman and sophomore years, Ms. Bennett was a member of the all-female group, Treble Makers. Last year she sang in the mixed choir, Choral Makers, and is hoping to do so again as a senior.
"I was the musical director for the two years that I was in Treble Makers and it was one of the best leadership experiences I've ever had," Ms. Bennett said. "It was so much fun running a group that does the thing that I love the most; sing."
The teenager's senior year schedule consists of four core classes along with chamber choir and the choral internship with Mrs. Mainville. "My favorite class this year has to be chamber choir," Ms. Bennett said. "It's such a joy singing in such an elite choir with my friends."
The senior is popular with her classmates and teachers. She's made many friends in Huntington and will graduate next June with an assortment of fond memories. "My favorite teacher is by far Mrs. Mainville," Ms. Bennett said. "She is such an inspiration to me, and to all of her students. Mrs. Mainville has many characteristics that I hope to take with me as I advance to being a high school chorus teacher."
Ms. Bennett is applying to SUNY Potsdam, SUNY Fredonia, the College of St. Rose and Buffalo State University. "My top school is Potsdam," she said. "I want to major in music education and become a high school chorus teacher."
Several Huntington High School music teachers have attended Potsdam, which is known for its strong music program. Potsdam alumni include Mrs. Mainville, band director Jason Giachetti and orchestra director Lisa Leonardi. "I expect it to be fantastic," Ms. Bennett said.
When it comes to the incoming freshman class, Ms. Bennett has a message for the ninth graders. "You probably have the impression that upperclassmen are out to get you," she said. "It's really the complete opposite! We've all been in your place so if you need any help with anything, don't hesitate to ask!"