News We Love: Freshman hits all the right notes as musician, composer
A Massachusetts high school freshman is already making a name for himself as both a musician and a composer.
Jacob Sallette, 15, holds two of the most competitive positions in his school's orchestra — Concertmaster and first-chair violin — roles typically reserved for upperclassmen.
His teacher at Canton High School, Brian Thomas, says that kind of recognition at such a young age is rare.
"It's pretty rare as a freshman to be able to win that position," Thomas said, noting that Jacob earned the role through auditions at the start of the year.
From the front of the orchestra, Jacob isn’t just playing — he's helping lead.
"He runs sectionals, he runs lessons," Thomas added, "and a lot of times he'll say, 'Oh, Mr. Thomas, I have an idea.'"
That leadership didn't happen overnight.
Jacob admits he didn't immediately fall in love with the violin.
"I didn't love it at first, it was just something to do," he said. "I just practiced, and it just grew."
In just a few short years, that consistency has paid off.
Beyond performing, Jacob has also developed a passion for composing his own music.
"It started when I was playing with computer software to arrange and transcribe music," he said. "Then I started creating my own melodies, and it became something I wanted to explore."
His most recent piece, "City Scenes," earned recognition in the Southeastern Massachusetts Music Educators Association composition competition.
Thomas says Jacob's success comes down to more than just talent.
"Talent only takes you so far," he said. "You have to put in the work if you really want to achieve at a high level—and he understands that."
Outside of music, Jacob balances a full schedule that includes honors classes, cross country, and student council.
Still, he says performing is what keeps him motivated.
"It's really fun for me to play in orchestras or chamber ensembles," Jacob said. "That's what gives me the motivation to practice and prepare."
