Musical notes are constantly forming around Dan Sottile.
In Oxford High School’s Symphonic Band, he plays the French Horn.
In the school’s Marching Band, he plays the baritone.
And in the pit band for the school’s recent production of the musical ‘Annie,? Sottile played the violin.
The sophomore has even showcased his musical talents outside Oxford. Back in January, he played violin in Michigan’s All-State Orchestra in a concert at DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids.
‘This was a very big honor placing [Dan] among the best high school violinists in the state,? said OHS band director Jim Gibbons. ‘He is an outstanding violin player.?
Sottile is only the second OHS student to play in the state orchestra in the six years the orchestra’s been existence; the prior musician was last year’s trumpet player Nick Schreker.
Playing in a state level school orchestra is an impressive task when you consider Sottile only recently turned 16 (on March 27) and that this is actually his third time playing at state. He twice played in the all-state concert while at Oxford Middle School. This was his first year playing at the high-school level.
‘It was pretty amazing since there’s so much good talent in the state,? Sottile said. ‘You’re surrounded by it and it’s a great experience. It’s a pretty big accomplishment. It shows how good I’ve become musically and that I’m at some of the highest levels in the entire state.?
If Sottile seems ahead of his game as a violinist, talent and time both are factors. He’s been playing the stringed instrument for about nine years.
When he showed interest, his parents got him a violin and lessons with a private teacher. He became hooked and has been playing ever since.
The sophomore described the violin as a ‘technically difficult? instrument.
‘It’s such a beautiful instrument and unlike any other instrument out there,? he explained. ‘It’s very difficult but it’s very rewarding.?
Sottile hopes someday to play for other orchestras, specifically at the professional level. He’d like to pursue a musical career, both playing in an orchestra and as a composer.
‘I’m excited about Oxford starting a strings program and someday there might be people who follow in my footsteps,? he said.
Gibbons added that Sottile should be proud of the accomplishment.
‘It’s a huge honor when you consider the students from all over Michigan who audition for a very limited number of spots,? he said. ‘It’s the equivalent of being an all-state athlete, and it’s a very big feather in the cap for Dan.?