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Scheck Hillel Orchestra Student Shines in Emmy-Nominated Film

Congratulations to Jonathan Naim '28 for his participation in the Emmy Award-nominated film "Breaking the Silence." This production of Miami Dade College Orchestra is nominated in the Arts Entertainment category of the Suncoast Region Emmy Awards, and its final montage, which includes Jonathan's performance and production talent, is nominated in the Musical/Composition category. He is the youngest artist on the Miami Dade College team to be nominated for this award. 

Currently in seventh grade at Scheck Hillel, Jonathan's musical journey began early in his life, learning violin and other string instruments. "All of this came through practice, practice, practice," Jonathan said. "You do better each time, and when you get it right, you just love it." 

His role in Scheck Hillel's Upper School orchestra started early and younger than most. In fourth grade, Jonathan was invited to join a performance of 'Orpheus in the Underworld,' conducted by Angelica Losada, Scheck Hillel's orchestra director and Jonathan's school mentor. He also works on his music and performs beyond school under the guidance of Eugenia Mendez, his longtime teacher and mentor at Kalos.

Maestro Alberto Bade, Miami Dade College's Director of Orchestral Studies, described the experience that led to the nomination:

"Last Spring the Miami Dade College Orchestra worked on a television program entitled 'Breaking the Silence.' The television program was an experiment in which student composers would write original music for popular silent films of the past. The closing montage of the program was a collection of the most iconic silent films in history all edited together with an original composition by orchestral director Alberto Bade using modern electronic sounds combined with a symphonic orchestra. Last week, the program received an Emmy nomination for best arts entertainment programming and the final montage was nominated for best music. Jonathan Naim volunteered to participate in the final montage during his summer music camp at Miami Dade College. His name was on the credits and currently stands as the youngest artist of the program to be nominated for this award."

To enjoy the film "Breaking the Silence" and watch Jonathan perform within it, click here. Mazal tov!
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