The Rockland Symphony Orchestra Recognizes a Rockland Rising Star

From the RSO Rising Stars Concert Playbill

Anthony Faso, winner of the 2025 Rockland County Music Teacher’s Guild Concerto Competition, is a talented 16-year-old sophomore at North Rockland High School. Beginning his cello studies with Carole Tilson at age 12, Anthony’s prodigious musical gifts quickly became apparent in his strong ear, warmly expressive sound, and naturally dramatic emotional approach to the musical phrase. 

He has performed as a soloist with the Rockland Youth Symphony, recently received a score of 100% on an All-State audition at the NYS School Music Association Festival in Suffern, NY, and has been awarded scholarships for summer music study. 

He is a member of the Rockland Youth Symphony, and performs regularly with his high school orchestra, musical theatre pit orchestra and jazz band (on bass). Anthony has spent summers performing chamber music in Vermont at Point CounterPoint. 

In addition to his musical activities, Anthony is a dedicated member of the Boy Scouts of America, whose commitment to integrity, leadership and service are qualities he tries to exemplify in all his musical endeavors. 

Anthony shared with the RCT that he “…deeply enjoyed playing with the Rockland Symphony orchestra as a soloist,” describing the experience as one he would never forget. “Learning the piece and sharing it onstage taught me much more about music, patience, and myself.” 

To other musicians, young and old, Anthony had this to say:

“My advice to musicians ,other than practice, is to have a positive mindset. If you go into a rehearsal or learning a new piece with a mindset that you’re not going to do well, it’ll be a lot more difficult to reach that goal that you eventually want to achieve. This is why I believe that in certain situations, the way you approach the instrument can have a greater effect on your playing than the amount of time you practice.”

After personally reviewing footage of Anthony playing, I can easily say his emotional dedication to his art is beautiful to watch and a true joy. It is evident this young musician practices what he preaches and is sure to have many wonderful, music filled years ahead of him. Congratulations Anthony on your work as a soloist in this year’s Rising Stars Concert with the Rockland Symphony Orchestra.

Sierra Lidén

Managing Editor