The soothing sound of the woodwinds and the hum of the strings fill the room, hypnotizing the audience.
ELHS and the University of Connecticut (UConn) have collaborated for the past year to bring student interns into the classroom. Under the guidance of band teacher Justin Daly and orchestra teacher Emily Lattanzi, the music interns at ELHS are the ones holding the baton, shaping young musicians and helping them unveil the beauty of a piece.
UConn graduate of 2025, Caroline Chadman, the intern for the band classes said, “I’m learning to become a different type of leader and to become more confident in my abilities.” She added, “I’ve also learned to step back from this authoritative teacher or conductor role and think about how it’s more than just a performance, especially to the students.”
Ms. Chadman has helped the band students run sectionals, a method of rehearsing in small groups, providing feedback to the students, and keeping the rehearsals organized. She has developed valuable leadership and teaching skills along the way.
Junior and violinist Aaron Huang added, “having an intern taught me how to adapt to a new teaching style. I had to be more flexible and attentive.”
Additionally, Ms. Lattanzi believes that the interns are crucial for the students at EL, helping them grow and strengthen their musical skills.
“[The interns] force my students into an environment that relies heavily on their flexibility and their willingness to adapt,” Ms. Lattanzi said.
As the music department proceeds to excel, the interns continue to make an important and meaningful impact.
