Nazareth Academy Students Named Illinois Ambassadors of Music

Submitted by Nazareth Academy.

Nazareth Academy congratulates seniors Catherine Klostermann of Oak Brook and Aidan Walton of Westchester, who were selected as members of the Illinois Ambassadors of Music’s 2016 European Tour.

Both student musicians were nominated last year based on their musical skills, grade point average and involvement in school life. For both, the five concerts in five countries will be their first time traveling to Europe.

According to the letter from Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner, “You have earned this distinction because your musicianship, scholarship and leadership are among the best in Illinois…I am proud you and your fellow musicians will be representing Illinois in the countries of England, France, Switzerland, Austria and Germany on a 16-day excursion.”

Cat and Aidan display these same qualities of musicianship, scholarship and leadership at Nazareth Academy, being involved not just in multiple Naz bands, but in a host of student activities as well.

Cat is a pitcher for the Nazareth Softball program, earning ESCC All Conference honors in 2015, as well as a member of the school newspaper, NHS, Mu Alpha Theta, Health Careers Club and World Languages Club. “Sometimes it is hard to balance everything,” admits Cat, “but the physical aspect and the musical aspect are both such important components in my life that I can’t imagine one without the other.”

Michael Sliwinski, Director of Bands, commends Cat on handling her responsibilities, “Cat is a flautist who possess the necessary skills to continue with music at the next level. Her ability to manage her time appropriately has really caught my eye. She has shown tremendous dedication by going straight to rehearsals following rigorous softball practices.”

Aidan too balances musicianship with school work and extracurricular involvement. He’s a member of World Languages Club, Roadrunner Club, NHS and NEHS. According to Mr. Sliwinski, “Aidan is a positive influence in band who leads through his actions. He is always open to helping younger musicians who are not as experienced. Not only is he a fine trumpeter, Aidan possesses the professional skills to allow him to succeed in whatever he chooses to pursue in the future.”

For his part Aidan feels honored to be a part of Illinois Ambassadors of Music program. “I have stuck with band all these years because I truly enjoy playing music. To be recognized for doing something I enjoy, and then to have the travel opportunity on top of that, is huge.”