Tony Bennett left his heart in San Francisco.
Staples’ Orphenians will bring their voices there.
The elite ensemble is 1 of only 10 high school choirs invited to participate in the Chanticleer National Youth Choral Festival in March. The 4-day immersion program features coaching by members of Chanticleer, the internationally known choral performers and educators.
The climactic event, on March 30, is a gala concert at Davies Symphony Hall. Orphenians, the other 9 high school choirs, Chanticleer and guest artists will share the fabled stage.
The 2014-15 Orphenians.
This is not Orphenians’ 1st big trip. In the 1960s and ’70s, under George Weigle, the group traveled to the Virgin Islands, Austria and Poland. In the ’90s, Alice Lipson took them to Italy and the Czech Republic.
Now, with director Luke Rosenberg, Orphenians embark on a new adventure.
A steering committee wants to help all Orphenians — including those with financial constraints — make the trip. They’d like to defray the cost of meals and additional activities, too. To help contribute or offer ideas, click here, email lrosenberg@westport.k12.ct.us, or call 203-341-1309.
Want to hear Orphenians? Here’s their version of the intricate Haitian piece, “Tap Tap,” from the 2014 Spring Concert:
And here’s Rockin’ Jerusalem”:
Hi Dan,
Just a note of clarification, the Virgin Islands trip was in 1966. It was the first trip taken outside The continental United States from Staples. Man it was fun! I would do it again tomorrow!
John Mingay, Staples ’66
Dan, I don’t know about what went on in the 70s, but we Orphenians, also under Weigle, travelled to the Virgin Islands in 1966. Thanks and take care, Phil Millstein Princeton, N.J.
Hi Dan:
Is there a link to hear them or should I search on YouTube? I want to share with my daughter who is in Choir at the Seabury Academy at St. Pauls on the Green in Norwalk. Thx.
Didn’t you see the two YouTube links at the end of my post?
Dan, Do you have an email address or other contact information for Luke? As a Staples alum living in San Francisco I’d like to be helpful to them out here if possible.
lrosenberg@westport.k12.ct.us — I’m sure he’d love to hear from you!