For 48 hours, the Staples High music department scrambled.
Moving the Westport Pops concert — a beloved Levitt Pavilion tradition — into the school’s auditorium, due to the threat of thunderstorms, was a mammoth task.
But they did it. Arranging a new sound system, re-staging the show, feeding the 200 musicians and many more attendees — all went flawlessly, thanks to the staff, many helpers, and the Staples Music Parents Association.
The result was another spectacular performance. Vocal groups large and small; the Symphonic Band and Orchestra; the Jazz Ensemble — all wowed the crowd.
In the end, there were no thunderstorms outside.
But indoors, Staples musicians captured lightning in a bottle.
Sara Stanley and Will McCrea warm up the crowd, with “My Green Light.”
Andrew Maskoff (keyboard) and Seamus Brannigan (drums) entertain before the show.
Ian Green solos on “Song For My Father.”
Cat Betit belts out “Don’t Rain on My Parade.”
As pre-show acts play, and the orchestra takes their seats, the audience settles in …
… and the choral groups get ready.
Tony Award-winning actor Jim Naughton emcees …
… and his grandson, Owen Naughton, plays keyboard.
Kevin Mazzarella leads the Jazz Ensemble.
Multi-talented Andrew Maskoff wows the crowd with “Sway.”
Wreckapellas have fun with “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.”
Coldplay’s “VIva La Vida” gets the string treatment from Kendra Cheng, Luca Caniato and Zach Gillman.
Choralaires perform “When You Wish Upon a Star.”
Eva Slossberg and Mia Zibly join the orchestra for “Skyfall.”
Music teachers who make it all happen: Lauren Pine, Jeri Brima, Carrie Mascaro, Kevin Mazzarella. Not pictured: Caitlin Serpliss, Mary Gardner. (All photos/Dan Woog)
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Lots of controversy occupying everyone’s thoughts these days—but not last night! Incredible! Westport is still the Best Port! The audience, both guests, and students waiting their turn ,were just as amazing as the performers and teachers themselves, erupting with applause and cheers mid-song or jumping to their feet, lifting each number even higher. I’d go back again tonight if I could!
great job by these talented young men and women.
incredible, amazing, awesome! what a night!