Huntington Chorus Performs for Memorial Day
The Huntington High School chamber choir visited the Town of Huntington's senior citizen center at the Village Green School on Park Avenue last week, performing a special selection of songs in honor of Memorial Day.
The teenagers mingled with the crowd and distributed red poppy flowers to dozens of senior citizens, many of whom served in the America's armed forces. The day's keynote address was given by retired teacher and U.S. Army veteran Paul Kelly, who served during the Vietnam War.
"Mr. Kelly often spoke directly to the chamber choir and reminded students to always be grateful for this beautiful and free country we live in and often take for granted," said Veronica S. Mainville, director of chorale activities at Huntington High School who accompanied students to the Village Green.
Mr. Kelly urged the teenagers to remember to pay tribute to those who had served their country and who had made the ultimate sacrifice, as well as those who are currently serving in the military.
The Huntington chamber choir sang Stephen Schwartz' "Beautiful City" from the musical Godspell by Stephen Schwartz. "It's a song about growing together as a society and always striving to do what's right," Mrs. Mainville said. The choir also performed "God Bless America."
The visit came about when junior Sarah Mosden, a member of the chamber choir, recommended the group to Julia Frangione, the senior center's program supervisor, who coordinated the ceremony. "It was very meaningful to have the opportunity to sing for our veterans and to honor them for Memorial Day," Ms. Mosden said.
The Huntington students enjoy opportunities to perform at community events and especially savor the chance to spend time with senior citizens. "The chamber choir and I had a wonderful time singing for the seniors," Mrs. Mainville said.