Aidan Buckelew tried playing the trumpet three years ago.
Today, the 6th Grade student at the Hillside Intermediate School is now regarded as one of the finest trumpet players for his age in New Jersey.
Aidan had passed his audition this month and was accepted into the Central Jersey Music Educators Association (CJMEA) Intermediate Region Band, Orchestra, and Percussion Ensembles.
He and nine students from the Bridgewater-Raritan Middle School received this distinction.
It was a rare feat for a 6th Grade student to be honored, since most of the musicians accepted are in Grades 7 and 8.
“I started playing the trumpet when I began 4th Grade,” Aidan recalled. “I have done a lot of practicing.”
He will perform the trumpet in the Symphonic Band 15 when the CJMEA Band Concert will be held on Sunday, March 8, at Bridgewater-Raritan Middle School. The CJMEA Orchestra Concert will be performed on Sunday, March 15, at Monroe Township High School. Both concerts are at 3 p.m.
Aidan’s music teacher at Hillside, Jacob Ulm, spoke about Aidan's musical talent.
“All of us at Hillside are extremely proud of Aidan and his accomplishment of being selected to participate in the Region Band,” Mr.Ulm said. His hard work and dedication to his instrument are a shining example of what students at Hillside can accomplish. Great Job, Aidan!”
Aidan, who also plays piano and drums, shared that he will continue playing the trumpet.
“I am glad that I took up playing the trumpet,” he said.