Turpin Alum Composes Song to Commemorate School’s 50th Anniversary
Turpin Alum Composes Song to Commemorate School’s 50th Anniversary
In recognition of the 50th anniversary of Turpin High School, Class of 2020 alumnus Aadhivan Ramkumar composed a song for string quartet to commemorate this special occasion. Aadhi, who began his musical career in Ms. Lynn Poffenberger’s orchestra class at Sherwood Elementary School, created this composition as a way to celebrate the community that helped spark his love for music.
“As a trained musician, it was hard for me to think of a better way to give back to Turpin High School than through the gift of music,” Aadhi said. “I have been exposed to music since I was born, and I was an orchestra member at Turpin for all four years from 2016-2020, so this just felt right.”
Aadhi graduated from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music in 2024 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. He graduated in May 2026 from the University of Miami Frost School of Music with a Master of Music degree in composition.
The song, which is titled “Golden Jubilee”, will be performed at the 50th Anniversary Kickoff Event on Friday, September 25, 2026 from 5-6 p.m. in the Turpin High School cafeteria. This special celebration will also feature school tours, a projection mapping art display, historical commemorations and class recognitions before the evening’s football game. You can visit the Turpin 50th Anniversary webpage to learn more.
The THS string quartet performing the new song will be:
- Kathryn Dillman, 1st violin
- Olivia Anderson, 2nd violin
- Miyla Dunkle, viola
- Nicholas Giglio, cello
“To say it was meaningful would be a grave understatement,” Aadhi said. “I met Ms. Poffenberger 15 years ago at a recruiting event for Sherwood, and she has been such an important component to my musical journey. In fact, I don’t think I would be where I am right now without her help.”
People who are not able to attend this celebration will also be able to hear the piece performed at the Turpin orchestra concert on Tuesday, October 13, 2026 in the auditorium. The October concert performance of “Golden Jubilee” will include the addition of Mr. Paul West, longtime Turpin orchestra director who helped open the school in 1976.
Current students in the Turpin orchestra program will be treated to a special guest lecture by Aadhi on Thursday, September 24 where he will discuss his musical background, educational journey and provide a lesson on musical composition. FHSD and Turpin High School thank Aadhi for generously giving back to students with his lecture and by providing a unique and special way to commemorate the school’s anniversary by composing “Golden Jubilee”.
