Nassau Student, Inspired By Ukraine, Composes 'Christmas In Kyiv'

BELLMORE, NY — One local student used her talents to help spread holiday cheer.

Mepham High School student Samantha Nadler has composed music as a hobby since 2020. For the time, the senior wrote a piece for the school's band to perform.

Inspired by the war in Ukraine, she penned "Christmas in Kyiv" for the recent winter concert.

"I wanted to write a piece that would not only be a fun piece to play, but also a learning experience that connects the music community to current events," she said.

Her number is based on Ukrainian folk music, including the "Bell Carol."

"I feel that music is a great way to raise awareness of whatever cause you're passionate about; we don't all speak the same language, but we can all convey the same emotions through music,” Nadler said.

Band director Anthony Brandofino has watched her grow as a student and musician, calling it a "dream" with Nadler.

"She has a bit of a 'Midas touch'; anything in which she involves herself both in and outside of music results in such high quality,” he said.