Hitting the right notes
Local teenager to perform in all-state band
By Diane Beaudoin Journal Correspondent

Justine Popik practices her oboe for the All-State band concert. Journal Photo / Caitlyn Kelleher

A Westminster resident has the opportunity of a lifetime, playing her instrument in Boston's Symphony Hall after being selected to participate in the Massachusetts Music Educator's Association All State Concert Band.

Justine Popik, 18, has been playing the oboe for 11 years, or since first grade, and like fine wine, she continues only to get better with age.

When asked how she got interested in the oboe, Popik explained it was a trip to the Boston Ballet that started it all rolling.

"I was reading the program and asked my dad what the oboe was and what it sounded like," she said.

Popik has taken lessons for years, and auditioned for the position with the orchestra, being one of only seven people chosen from Central Massachusetts to play in the upcoming three-day festival starting on Saturday, March 24.

The senior at Bancroft School in Worcester said playing in Symphony Hall is quite the experience for any musician.

"It is going to be very fulfilling. The joy of Symphony Hall is it totally enriches your sound, and having so many people listen to you playing your music, and playing with so many other talented musicians is amazing."

She was invited to audition for the All State Concert Band after being selected as the first chair oboist for the Massachusetts Central District Orchestra. Of all students selected for the orchestra, only half of the performers were invited to audition for an All-State place.

She will also be sitting first chair for the oboe section of the All State Concert Band.

"The first chair will get to play solos, the exposed parts and the second chair is more supporting melodies," she said.

Popik does not have a favorite piece to play, although her interests focus on pieces from the 20th Century, especially the those of a more contemporary style.

"Each piece has its own parts I love to play," she said.

Popik's mother, Jean, said she is extremely proud of her daughter for what she has accomplished in her music career.

"Justine puts in a lot of effort, she has always been a very determined child. She puts in the work that is needed to get where she is," she said. "There have been some bumps in the road, but she never got discouraged."