Hendrick Hudson Inducts Inaugural Class into Music Hall of Fame

This week marked a major milestone for Hendrick Hudson’s Music Department. During the recent Tri-M Music Honor Society induction, the district held its inaugural Hendrick Hudson Music Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in the HHHS Auditorium.

The induction celebrated the achievements of the inaugural nine-member class: Elena Bonomo, Philip Solomon, Claire Leyden, Steven Frieder, Sarah Ann Duffy, Susan Feldman, Clare Carey, Ema S.K. Price and William Lemak.

The new Hall of Fame was the result of Hendrick Hudson’s Tri-M Chapter’s senior service project.

“Every senior here played a role in making this dream a reality,” said Sophie Gormley, a Hendrick Hudson senior. “Thank you all for your dedication, creativity, and hard work.”

The honorees were introduced by Choir Director Erica Denler and given a trophy that symbolized their induction.

“This new tradition honors extraordinary individuals — both former students and teachers — who have shared and enriched the musical legacy of Hendrick Hudson over nearly a century,” senior Castalia Litos said. “These inductees embody the highest ideals of musicianship, leadership, service, and a lifelong commitment to the arts.”

“Your legacy, whether established in recent years or nearly a century ago, has shaped the foundation of Hendrick Hudson’s music program,” Orchestra Director Lauren Morabito said. “It is fitting that you are part of this first-ever class, setting the standard for future generations.”

Here is more on this year’s nine inductees:

Ema S.K. Price
Price, a Class of 1918 graduate, who was inducted posthumously, was Hendrick Hudson’s first music teacher. She served the district from 1927-63, teaching and leading every performing group singlehandedly until 1950. Price’s pioneering efforts laid the foundation for music education in the district.

William Lemak
The Class of 1965 graduate served as Student Organization President, during which he founded School Spirit Week, a tradition that continues today. He returned after college to teach elementary and high school band from 1970-2002. He revived the chorus, directed musicals, and grew the band to nearly 100 members while providing leadership and spirit that helped shape the music program.

Susan Feldman
Feldman taught orchestra in the district from 1992-2016, nurturing generations of string students. She continued to advocate for music education after retirement by creating and directing the Ovation Strings Program, which provides free lessons to underserved youth in Peekskill.

Clare Carey
The Class of 1981 graduate was first a theater student who later served as musical theater director from 2011-25. The former Tri-M President was a founder of the current chapter. She directed numerous musical productions and still serves as Director of Food Services for the district.

Sarah Ann Duffy
The Class of 2013 graduate current teaches music in the Boston area and is a classically-trained vocalist who performs professionally. She has appeared at such iconic venues as Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center, and sheperformed recently at the Glimmerglass Festival.

Steven Frieder
The Class of 2009 graduate is a professional saxophonist and wind player known for his work across jazz, pop, rock and funk. He has toured internationally with major artists, including Boy George and Culture Club, and has performed worldwide at renowned venues like the Hollywood Bowl and Singapore Formula 1 Grand Prix.

Elena Bonomo
The Class of 2014 graduate has play drums in multiple productions on Broadway and on national tours, including Six and Waitress. Her impressive career as a percussionist has led to TV appearances on Late Night with Seth Meyers and performances around the world.

Philip Solomon
The Class of 2015 graduate is a Julliard School-trained clarinetist who has performed with major ensembles, including the Metropolitan Opera, and has performed at Lincoln Center. Solomon has toured globally and is recognized for his artistry by the Henri Selmer Paris instrument company.

Claire Leyden
The Class of 2012 graduate has performed as a singer and actress who has earned credits in national tours, operas and TV shows and whose work has been praised by the New York Times. The versatile artists continues to perform in a wide range of productions across the country.