By Hannah Block
We’re all familiar with the music department here at East. They put on numerous productions for us to enjoy through the year from concerts to plays and musicals. Obviously we owe our gratitude to the amazing teachers in the department, but some of the credit should be attributed to the students as well. Robin Solazzo is a senior who has taken many leadership roles in East’s music realm over the years. He is currently the president of and a viola player in Symphony Orchestra, the student director and a member of vocal jazz, and a member of choraleers and chorale. He has also participated in all the plays and musicals that took place during his time at East. You may have seen him as Little Red Ridinghood in this year’s production of Into the Woods. He also assumed the role of student vocal director backstage.
Many, including myself, can count on Robin as a friend. Robin was surprised when I told him I wanted to write a profile on him, but he was ultimately excited and willing to participate. Very fittingly, I actually sat down with him to ask my questions before a rehearsal for the Shea’s Wonder Awards. Our conversation was easy and fun and we even had enough time to lock in for rehearsal. Robin is a great person to have around because he makes even the most difficult of practices enjoyable.
Friend or not, anyone who knows Robin knows he loves music. But when did that start? Robin thought for a moment before answering: “probably, like, middle school. I started viola and became a lot more involved in chorus. It kind of developed into my identity and by the time I was in high school, it was mainly my thing.”
Robin participates in music in and out of school. Within the building, he credits Mrs. Ieda, Mrs. Raimondo, and Ms. Girzone for helping him grow. Outside of East, Robin takes dance (tap, lyrical, heels, and ballet) and said that although tap dance is his favorite, his senior solo at his upcoming recital is lyrical.
Robin’s favorite memories from East music are from Winterfest. He enjoyed getting to play “Sleigh Ride” with symphony orchestra and always had fun running all over the place to do a million other different solos and groups during Winterfest. Leaving behind memories like that would be hard for most and Robin is no exception, but he acknowledges that he’ll make more memories beyond his high school experience. “It’s weird and it’s kinda sad,” he explained when asked if it felt odd being a senior, to which he answered “yes” with no hesitation. “But it’s good to look back to see how I’ve grown.” Although he may have mixed feelings, he appreciates that seniors get recognition and he’s excited for what comes next.
So, what is next for Robin? He’ll attend University of Buffalo as a Civil Engineering major with a minor in music. His major comes from his interest in STEM and problem solving. Robin is excited to continue his story at UB!
Robin’s musical talent is only one of his many strengths. He is always willing to lend a helping hand. “Robin is such a good friend,” said symphony cello player and chorale member Elena Goldstein. “He is a very dedicated viola player and you can tell when he really cares about something because he gets really focused and determined on that one thing.” She went on to say that Robin is a compassionate person who makes her feel safe, even giving an example of a time he joined her for a walk outside with her dog in the darkness.
Guitarist Keith Morris can attest to Robin’s kindness. “He is a very kind soul. He likes to keep to himself, which I can completely understand.” Keith accompanied Robin for his senior solo at the choral department’s senior cabaret.
From reviewing choreo for the musical to cheering everyone up with his great sense of humor, Robin is definitely the type of person you’d want to perform alongside on stage and laugh with in the wings.