Photo courtesy of the Bronxville Union Free School District

By Blaine Malefatto, Syntax

Dec. 17, 2025: Bronxville High School junior Abby Fong achieved an extraordinary milestone this month at the NYSSMA All-State Music Conference, one of New York State’s most selective and esteemed festivals for student musicians.

Thousands of students statewide audition for All-State each year, with only the highest scorers earning a place in the ensembles. Fong not only secured a seat in the All-State Symphony Orchestra but was named assistant concertmaster — the number two violinist in the orchestra. The role is among the most competitive positions, as the Symphony Orchestra draws the top musicians from New York’s 11th and 12th grades.

During the conference in Rochester, Fong rehearsed and performed under the direction of distinguished conductors. This year’s repertoire included selections from Prokofiev’s “Romeo and Juliet” and “Cool Cat,” a contemporary piece by composer Adam Schoenberg.

Fong’s accomplishment represents years of dedication, extensive practice and strong support from Bronxville educators. She performs with the Bronxville orchestra under the direction of Matthew Dell, whose mentorship has played a key role in her growth. She also studies privately with violin instructor Anca Nicolau, whose guidance has helped her refine her technique and artistry.

Dell praised Fong’s achievement, calling her role in the All-State Symphony Orchestra “a tremendous accomplishment and a testament to Abby’s talent and dedication.”

This latest honor follows Fong’s recent appointment as assistant concertmaster of the Area All-State Symphony Orchestra at SUNY Purchase.

Having studied violin since the age of 4, Fong has accumulated numerous accolades, including first prize in the senior division of the Ani Kavafian String Competition and finalist recognition in the Danbury Concerto Competition. She has performed at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall as a concerto competition winner and appeared as a soloist with The Symphony of Westchester.

Fong is also an active chamber musician, having participated in more than 40 public performances as a member of string quartets and a piano trio. In addition, she has led and performed outreach concerts at senior centers, playing for more than 1,000 residents.

Fong credits her success to Nicolau, Dell and her passion for performance. Bronxville MS/HS Band Director Uma Karkala traveled with Fong to the All-State Conference from Dec. 4–7, supporting her throughout the event.

Bronxville High School congratulates Abby Fong on this distinguished honor. Her achievement reflects the strength of the district’s music program and the dedication, discipline, and artistry she brings to her craft.