Not only are the students of the Port Washington school district talented, but so are the musicians and artists who teach them.
Dozens gathered at Paul D. Schreiber High School last Wednesday night for a performance and art exhibit hosted by the Port Washington school’s faculty.
Master of Ceremonies Kevin Scully, the district’s director of creative arts, said the teachers had volunteered their time because of their pure love for the arts.
“They are participating due to a passion for what they do and the desire to pass that passion along to the students, parents, colleagues and community members,” he said.
The teachers played an assortment of musical talents during the recital: singing, brass instruments, pianos, drums and string instruments.
During an intermission, attendees were invited to view teachers’ art pieces that were displayed in an art gallery format.
Anthony Pinelli, an orchestra teacher at Schreiber, performed a bass solo with a loop pedal, collaborated in a jazz quartet which played “If I were a Bell,” played an arrangement of “Bohemian Rhapsody” with the faculty orchestra and for the grand finale he performed “Let it Be” with the rest of the staff who participated.
“I believe in the faculty art show and recital because students should have the opportunity to see the skills of their teachers,” Pinelli said.
He said he also loved having the opportunity to play music with the extremely talented staff in Port Washington.
Stephen Connolly, a music and chorus teacher at South Salem Elementary School and Sousa Elementary School, showcased his vocal talent in three pieces, “A Heart Full of Love,” “Agony” and in the finale performance of “Let it Be.”
He said he has been involved with the program since its inception because it is a way for music and art educators to demonstrate what they do professionally.
