Spring Concert Series Closes with Surprise Guest

Huntington UFSD wrapped up its spring concert series with a series of performances that brought audiences to their feet last week in the Huntington High School auditorium.

“We’ve had an absolutely amazing spring concert series, which culminated with our sixth grade combined Jack Abrams STEM Magnet School and Woodhull Intermediate School concert last Thursday evening,” Director of Fine and Performing Arts Brian Stellato said. “All of our Huntington musicians should be so proud of the progress they’ve made. Congratulations to our district-wide performing arts staff for inspiring high levels of musicianship and pride.”

Band, orchestra and chorus members all made spectacular progress throughout the year and the youngsters put on a series of concerts that will long be remembered for their high quality.

The string of evenings were not without some twists and turns, which kept things interesting for everyone.

“Our sixth grade band had a surprise trumpet ‘ringer’ join them for their last song,” Mr. Stellato said. “Superintendent of Schools Jim Polansky returned to his trumpet playing days, doing a great job sitting in on the last piece! Mr. Polansky has been a consistent supporter of the arts during his tenure. The fine and performing arts department is so appreciative of everything he has done in support of the arts in Huntington.”

The student musicians were led by music department faculty members that included Nicole Lynch (fourth grade strings), Katherine Schmelter (fourth grade band), Christina Bhasin (fifth grade strings), Tara Adams (fifth grade band), Hannah Van Wickler (sixth grade strings), Chelsea Jablon (sixth grade band), Josie Greco (Jack Abrams STEM music and combined fifth grade choir), Katie Canales (Woodhull music and combined sixth grade choir), Nicole Castaldo (seventh and eighth grade strings), Chris Scarnato (seventh grade band), Sue Graber (seventh and eighth grade choir), Frank Battista (eighth grade band), James DiMeglio – (high school strings), Victoria Garbarino (high school choir), Andre Rizzuto (ninth and tenth grade band) and Jason Giachetti (eleventh and twelfth grade band).