Chatham High School Senior Named Theater's Student Of The Month

CHATHAM, NJ — Andrew Palmieri, come take the spotlight. The Mayo Performing Arts Center named the Chatham High School senior one of its students of the month.

This month, MPAC honored "Outstanding Vocalists" for its student awards. Teachers nominate students each month who get selected by the theater's education department based on commitment and excellence in the
performing arts.

Palmieri received the nomination from Ken Bryson, who wrote the following:

"Andrew has been a member of both Concert Choir freshman year and Select Choir, our auditioned mix voiced choir, the remaining three years. This year as well, Andrew successfully auditioned and was accepted into our Music Honors Program. Andrew has a very solid understanding of music and has been a major asset to his vocal section and the ensemble through his leadership qualities.

This year Andrew also became a member of our student run all-male a capella group Chacafellas. On the stage, Andrew is equally as versed - he is incredibly dynamic, enthralling to watch and quite honestly simply at home and in his element. Most recently Andrew received the highest gold rating in the Arts Ed NJ Music Festival. Additionally Andrew was recently accepted into Penn State's highly competitive Musical Theatre program for his college study. I would be remiss if I didn't mention one of Andrew's best qualities — his persistence.

While I have seen Andrew succeed in countless activities throughout his four years in high school, I have also seen his failures during this time as well. While many students would have given up in such trying moments, Andrew did not. He always sought ways in which he could better himself for next time. Andrew is extremely dedicated to his craft and will work tirelessly until he achieves the success he desires. I consider myself a very lucky person to have been Andrew's teacher these past four years. I guarantee that you will not be disappointed in choosing Andrew Palmieri for this honor."

MPAC typically honors students onstage before an event. The theater paused the tradition because of pandemic restrictions but believes it remains important to continue recognizing local students' achievements. Each winner will receive a certificate and will appear on the Student of the Month page on MPAC's website.

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