Freeport Public Schools

In a celebration of music, community and student growth, members of the Main Street School and Irvington High School bands and orchestras recently came together for their annual end-of-year collaborative performance – a beloved tradition that highlights the strength of the district’s music program.

“It was so meaningful to see the mutual admiration between our fifth graders and the high school students,” MSS Principal Joyce Chapnick said. “The respect they showed for one another and the joy they shared in making music together was palpable.”

The event showcased a rich variety of musical selections. The fifth grade orchestra performed “Sahara Crossing” by Richard Meyer, while the high school orchestra delighted the audience with selections from “Wicked.” Together, both orchestras joined forces for a memorable rendition of Coldplay’s “Viva La Vida.”

“This was a great opportunity for collaboration across the district, as well as inspiration for the fifth graders to see the trajectory of their music education,” MSS music teacher Nicole Allison said. “It was great to be able to play together as a united group.”

Middle and high school orchestra teacher Shadman Mirza said that having the full spectrum of string playing in one space was exciting.

“I look forward to continuing this tradition for years to come,” Mirza said. 

The fifth grade band contributed a dynamic performance of "Dance of the Jabberwocky,” and joined the high school band in performing “Go Big Green.” 

“It was wonderful for students to connect across grade levels through music,” MSS music teacher Megan Hannon said. “Students took pride in their work as they played their songs for each other.”

The collaborative performance is an example of the district’s Portrait of a Graduate in action. The students embodied the roles of effective communicators, engaged citizens and courageous learners as they supported each other and shared their passion for music. 
 
“This collaboration day is always such a great experience for all our students,” high school band director and music department chairperson Debra McCumber said.