HochStories

It was great to have so many former Hochstein students return to Rochester for a special concert by the Hochstein Alumni Orchestra on Friday, January 6! The musicians had two rehearsals during the week to prepare for the concert, which usually takes place during winter break. Read on for more stories of alumni who participated, and to see photos from the concert.

From the beat of dance classes directly above my office, to the smiles and giggles of toddlers after a Music FUNdamentals class, to the gorgeous sounds coming from rehearsals, coachings, and lessons throughout our buildings – every sound is precious and energizing. But the magic isn’t just inside these walls! ...

We’re excited to share the story of a Hochstein student who took on the task of learning something completely new later in life. Paul Kane started taking Hochstein’s Piano 101 Class when he was in his 50s, with no prior musical training, and has continued with piano lessons with Dr. Yi-Wen Chang. He is now in his ninth year of studies at Hochstein. Read more and watch a video...

​​​​​​​Hochstein student Olivia Eloi-Evans, a 5th grader in Brighton, has been taking violin lessons with Katie Worley since last spring. But one of her other interests is the theatre, which she has participated in since the age of 5. She has appeared in productions of "Annie," "The Wizard of Oz," "Mary Poppins," "Sleeping Beauty," and "The Sound of Music." She now has a new role – as the Ghost of Christmas Past in Geva Theatre Center’s ...

A Broadway actor, versatile performer, and teacher, Tamar Greene traces his roots back to his early years at The Hochstein School. Tamar first came to Hochstein when he was around 6 years old and took dance and piano lessons and sang in the children’s choir. Now, he plays the role of George Washington in the Broadway production of "Hamilton." Read more about his musical journey...

On Tuesday, September 27, The Hochstein School celebrated the reopening of the historic Performance Hall after a summer of repairs and renovations with “Hochstein Presents,” a special event for community partners, supporters, media, and guests.

At the Hochstein All-Faculty Meeting on Tuesday, September 6, 21 members of the faculty and staff were recognized for milestone anniversaries with the School, from 5 years to 30 years. Hochstein’s dedicated faculty and staff are the life blood of the organization and we are grateful for all of their contributions. Read on to find out more about these people.

In August, Hochstein dance instructor Nydia Padilla Rodriguez was recognized by New York State Senator Samra Brouk as a 2022 Woman of Distinction in a special ceremony held at Geva Theatre Center. Nydia is the founder and artistic director of the Borinquen Dance Theatre, which was born in 1981 at the Puerto Rican Festival and several years later became an ensemble in residence at Hochstein with regular performances in the Performance Hall. Read more about Nydia and the award.

Hochstein faculty members are taking part in a number of Rochester Fringe Festival events starting on Tuesday, September 13 and running through Saturday, September 24. Events include a comedy show called “Band Geeks;” a reprise of a tribute to Chick Corea through music and dance; dynamic Latin dance; an evening of stand-up comedy and drag; percussion ensemble; jazz band; and ukuleles!

The start of school always brings with it a thrum of excitement as we take a collective breath and launch a new year. This year especially, I look forward to many new experiences at Hochstein – new for me because this is my first fall as President & Executive Director. I can’t wait to experience the bustle of faculty, students, and families filling our hallways.