UPDATED: Parents Raise Awareness, Funds for Music Programs

Parents and students gathered at Ellington High School Saturday morning to raise money for the schools' music programs and, most importantly, raise awareness about what the talented children are bringing to the Ellington arts community.

While scarfing down some pancakes smothered in maple syrup, members of the community and supportive family listened and watched as more than 60 students performed. From some of today's most popular hits, to musical numbers from hit Broadway plays, to original songs, the students displayed their talents out on a makeshift stage in the cafeteria - evidence of their musical education.

Hosted by the Ellington Friends of Music, the breakfast was intended to show the difference music programs in schools could make for students. The proceeds from the breakfast will help support the music education in all Ellington schools and to purchase items that are not currently funded by the Board of Education, such as uniforms.

Jane Roets, parent and organizer of the breakfast and cabaret, said the money has not been slated for anything specific, but will be used where there is need. The Friends of Ellington Music fundraisers benefit kindergarten through grade 12 programs.

Roets said the motivation behind forming the group just one year ago was to make sure the music programs in Ellington schools survive, particularly in a country where music programs have long been suffering.

"Music programs across the country are often the first on the chopping block, and in the last 10-20 years it's really been dwindling," Roets said. "Our mission is advocacy, raising funds for support and providing performance opportunities. We felt we needed to support the Board of Education's efforts to maintain the music programs in the schools."

Roets said the student performers at the breakfast were fourth to twelfth graders. Notices were sent out to music teachers asking for volunteers to perform. The Ellington High School Vocal Ensemble, several music educators and a group of mothers - the Music Mamas - also joined in the performances.

According to the Friends, giving the students an outlet to perform, outside classes and recitals, is important to getting people to notice the positive impact of the programs.

"More than just about the money, it's about raising awareness and getting people to the music programs and events and supporting our kids," Dave Joy, a parent volunteer, said.

Joy said the goal was to raise at least $200, and that the fundraiser reached its goal and then some.

The performances were varied and showed off the range of talents of the students.

Some piano performances included: "Boulevard of Broken Dreams" performed by fourth grader Naomi Luginbuhl; "Fur Elise" performed by seventh grader Leah Gervin; and "My Heart Will Go On" performed by Joshua Feldman.

Vocal performances included: "Lucky" by twelfth grader Rachel Ballasy and eleventh grader Alex Weiner; "Hands" by Olivia and Grace Palmer, sixth and fourth graders; "Vittoria, Mio Core!" by ninth grader Rosanna Macchiarella; "I Hope You Dance" by eighth grader Basudha Chaudhuri; and original song "Shine" by twelfth grader JoAnna Paul.

Roets said in the spring the Friends will set up a booth at the town farmer's market and will sponsor another student performance opportunity.

For more information about future performances or on how to support the Friends' efforts, can e-mail Jane Roets at jnjroets@comcast.net.