Twenty-five Hauppauge High School vocalists had the exciting opportunity to perform in a professional production of Duke Ellington’s Concert of Sacred Music on Sunday, October 25, in Port Washington. The students joined a 17-piece jazz band composed of professional musicians and a group of professional soloists for this special musical event. The concert was conducted by Thomas J. Manuel, and it featured soloists Karen Perkins-Hall, alto; Rahsaan Cruse Jr., baritone; and Susanna Philips, soprano. This unique experience allowed Hauppauge’s talented singers to collaborate with professional musicians and take part in a significant work that blends jazz, choral music, and spiritual expression.

Representing Hauppauge’s music program:

Soprano: Madelyn Bayer, Charlotte Carruthers, Elasandra Garcia, Aivary Genninger, Medha Rao, Alyssa Schnetzler, and Gabriela Umana Rodriguez

Altos: Chloe Goehle, Ada Kennedy, Samyuktha Karanam, Gianna Lorusso, Gabrielle Louis, Jayla Roxas, and Star Stewart

Tenor: James Carty, Louis Constante, and Brendon Sottile

Bass: Alex Altman, Kiran Fernandes, Logan Garcia, Richard Hock, Landon Kaplan, Michael Malik, Sebastian Martino, and Jack Sullivan

Their participation reflects the dedication, musical growth, and commitment of Hauppauge’s student performers. Opportunities like this provide invaluable professional performance experience while allowing students to deepen their appreciation for the performing arts.