2017 String Award

Ryan Bailis, a senior at Freedom High School in Bethlehem, began playing cello 10 years ago, and currently studies with Betty Tang-Louie. He is the principal cellist of the Young People’s Philharmonic (YPP) and school orchestras. Ryan has also been a part of the YPP chamber string quartet, school pit orchestra, and tuba section leader of the Patriot’s Marching Band. He sat as principal cellist of the 2017 PMEA District 10 Orchestra and participated in several Region IV/V festivals as well as the All-State Orchestra. Ryan also proudly serves his Church as a member of its Music Ministry and also provides private cello lessons to young musicians.

       As Vice President of the National Honor Society at Freedom High School, Ryan earned the designation of AP Scholar with Distinction. He is a founding member of his school’s Robotics Team, advancing to the State Championships two years in a row. Ryan also competed in the Future Business Leaders of America program and advanced to the National Conference in Atlanta, Georgia for his award-winning Website Design and Business Plan Presentation. Ryan is also a member of the Student Council, Science Olympiad, and the Golf Team. Ryan plans to pursue a dual-degree in Engineering and Business and intends to continue following his passion for music by becoming a member of his college’s symphony and chamber ensembles.