On Friday, March 15, St. Francis Prep’s vaunted music department will present its annual jazz/pop concert. Originally a vehicle for the school’s jazz band, the concert now features Prep’s top ensembles — jazz band, honors percussion ensemble, chamber choir and chamber orchestra. The Divine Wisdom Catholic Academy, led by Anthony Russo, will open the show.
This year, the honors percussion ensemble and chamber orchestra had the opportunity to work with clinicians prior to the performance. Honors percussion spent an afternoon with Doug Perry, from Western Connecticut State University.
According to the university’s website, “Percussionist/improviser Doug Perry blurs the lines of genre and allows musics of all styles and backgrounds to share the same stage. Originally a jazz drummer and vibraphonist, Doug has expanded his activities to include classical percussion, electronic music, rock and popular music. His creativity and versatility has allowed him to participate in a wide range of musical settings, whether it be playing timpani in an orchestra, vibraphone in a jazz combo, or providing original music for multimedia collaborations.”
For chamber orchestra, their session with James Dooley was a chance to work with one of their own. Dooely, and Emmy-Award winning composer graduated Prep in 1994. According to his website, “Jim Dooley is an Emmy Award-winning composer/songwriter with a diverse repertoire spanning the film, television, video gaming and live theatrical industries. He has earned accolades for his solo work as well as proud collaborations with many of the top names in music, from Hans Zimmer, Kristin Chenoweth to Babyface.”
Highlights of the concert will be the premiere of a “Sonic the Hedgehog” medley, arranged by the ensemble’s director, Marc Silvagni. The jazz band will perform Tower of Power’s signature tune, “What is Hip?” Chamber choir will present Mark Brymer’s arrangement of “Wichita Lineman.” And finally, chamber orchestra will perform Led Zepellin’s powerhouse, “Kashmir,” along with special guests from Prep’s Music Music faculty.
Prep’s music department, led by longtime chairperson Robert Corbino, has long been regarded as one of the best. In recent years, the department has been recognized by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, Music for All’s Advocacy in Action, and the KHS Academic Alliance. According to the Middle States Association, “Nobody is doing it better!”
The concert begins at 7:45 p.m., with doors opening at 7:15 p.m. The concert will take place in the Brother Ralph Clifford, O.S.F., Memorial Auditorium at 6100 Francis Lewis Boulevard in Fresh Meadows. Street parking is available.
For more information, contact Corbino at 718-423-881, x255 or rcorbino@sfponline.org.
