It’s been quite a year for the Staples Orphenians.
In March they traveled to — and wowed — San Francisco, as part of the prestigious Chanticleer festival.
Tonight they did the same at Yankee Stadium.
Choral director Luke Rosenberg directs the Orphenians at Yankee Stadium. (Photo/New York Yankees)
They had to wait out an hour-and-20-minute rain delay — hey, that’s show biz — but when they finally stood at home plate, they delivered a strong, sophisticated and inspiring rendition of our national anthem.
The largest crowd ever to watch the Orphenians perform gave them a loud, well-deserved hand.
Best of all, they made it onto the Jumbotron.
For the Yankees’ official high-def video, click here.
For Jim Honeycutt’s video — including scenes of the Orphenians greeting Jimmy Fallon and Lorne Michaels before they leave the field — click here:
To see Kim Mathias’ video, click below (or here, if your browser does not take you directly to YouTube):
To see Chip Stephens’ video, click below (or here, if your browser does not take you directly to YouTube):
Thanks Chip. Thanks Dan. Spectacular performance of a fantastic arrangement!!
Actually another added bonus.. Jimmy Fallon and Lorne Michaels were sitting right behind home plate, and many of us shook Fallon’s hand on our way out. He was clapping loudly and shouted “AWESOME! YOU GUYS WERE GREAT!” Right after our performance.
That was indeed awesome! I hope you get invited to perform before a Knicks’ game at the Garden next year. The Garden crowd is even louder and more responsive.
Amazing!!
Wow! Fabulous.
That was an excellent rendition. Well Done!!!
They sound incredible!! Way to go orphs! Proud to be an orphenian alum.
Wow Wow Wow!
I remember wanting to “make” Orphenians in high school, but alas, only scored a choir ranking.
These kids rock, and how exciting to have Fallon and Lorne Michaels cheering them on!! Historic! This talented group will never forget this moment.
Amazing that it even happened with today’s weather – I had the pre-game on AM radio, then shut it off, thinking it would be a wash. Boy was I wrong.
Next: Carnegie Hall, or perhaps a Rangers game at MSG? Talk about a hot crowd – hockey fans are the best.
Congrats and major Kudos to their amazing director – every school in America should have such an experience in music.
Actually, under an earlier director, Alice Lipson, the Orphenians did sing at Carnegie Hall (during the Christmas season) — at least, I think that’s the way I remember it.
Go Orphs! — from another proud Orphs alum
The sounded amazing and the crowd went wild when they finished. What a talented group!!
Just great, as are the follow up comments on Dan’s terrific blog. Thank you Chip Stephens.
Don Bergmann
Amazing!!! Made my heart sing. Love that the announcer mentioned George Weigel as well.
I couldn’t help myself. When I heard a family sitting in front of us saying that the Anthem never sounded so good, I had to say: “They’re mine” and then explain that I was their Principal. I dislike when the Star Spangled Banner is sung like a dirge. It should be rousing, respectful, and uplifting. This rendition is all of that and more. Even in the horrible heat and humidity in the stadium, I had goose bumps all over my body. For a few more days I can still brag that I am the Principal of Staples and am proud of my students.
Thank you so much Mr. Dodig. It has been an honor to be one of your students for the past 2 years, and I know that all of us in Orphenians really appreciate all of the support that you have given us.
Wonderful performance! Thanks Chip!
Super high quality version on yankees.com: http://m.yankees.mlb.com/video/v193624883