For anyone who has ever had the chance to go the Cabaret performances at AHS you know what I am talking about. This afternoon I watched more than 200 of our students bring many weeks of practice to a glorious culmination. The hard work and talent that has been put forth in these last few weeks was really worth it. The show that lasted more than two and a half hours flew by. There was one great showing after the other.
This is not just the work of our students. The many volunteers really are a key part of the success of this venture. Many are parents and some of those who put in countless hours don't even have any students at Alvirne anymore. They have become part of the machine that helps to create this wonderful event and no one can ever thank them enough.
Liz Beaton, our choral director, has done a great job in bringing out the talent in her students. This year, the number of solo's, dance routines and coordinated songs by mixed groups was more complex and detailed than ever before. At every turn, the students answered the call to give their best.
Gerry Bastien is the MUSIC MAN. He takes his mantra of want to, choose to, love to and ingrains it into our musicians. The quality of the music has been consistent year to year and somehow things just seem to be getting better each year. Gerry is one of those rare educators that can find diamonds in the ruff and bring them to their full shine, it is wonderful.
This year marked 20,000 people who have come to see Cabaret over the past fourteen years. This is a great accomplishment. Each year my in-laws travel two hours to come to see this show and each year they go home with a smile. For us, as with many, it has become a family tradition to attend. I am so proud to be part of this school community and of those who choose to be part of this great program. Alvirne High School's music program is second to none and I know it will be that way for years to come. Thanks to all!
As an FOM member, it is truly our privilege and honor to support the music department and most importantly, the students who work so hard and are so talented. Every year I am more and more amazed about the talent that the students in this town have and how wonderfully that talent is nurtured and fine tuned by those who make it their calling to teach the wonders of music to these students.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your kind words and thanks to Ms. Beaton and Mr. Bastien for all that they do – going above and beyond what is required -and all of your love for and patience with our children.
On to Cabaret 15 – “Made in America!”