Riverview senior selected to perform in National Honors Symphony Orchestra

Riverview High School senior Alexio Ciorra has been selected as one of eight bassists in this year’s All-National Honors Symphony Orchestra.

The orchestra, under the direction of world-renowned international conductor and violinist Nobuyoshi Yasuda, features the top high school musicians from across the nation.

They usually perform at a festival in Orlando, Fla. It was changed to an online show Jan. 7-9 due to the covid pandemic.

Ciorra, 18, of Oakmont has been playing the double bass since he was 6 years old.

The multitalented performer honed his skills with the help of high school orchestra director Jason Libell.

“Alexio has shown that he is not only a gifted orchestral musician but has also worked hard to master his band instruments and excel in chorus,” Libell said. “He was this year’s marching band senior drum major, a member of the jazz band, and was a lead in Riverview High School’s musicals for the past two years.”

Ciorra said he plans to attend college and purse a career as a double bass musician.

He credits Libell’s instruction as a major key to his success.

“I am extremely grateful that I was able to learn to play through the music department of Riverview School District,” Ciorra said.

The teen participated in the Strings North festivals, junior and senior high district, regional and all state festivals. He was accepted as a member of the Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra.

“As a musician, Alexio has taken advantage of every opportunity that Riverview can provide,” Libell said. “I am personally very proud and excited (for) Alexio.

“This is a huge honor, and I’m sure it will be a great experience that he will always remember. I couldn’t be happier for him, and I believe it is because of his hard work and excellent musicianship that he has achieved this opportunity.”