Great Neck Students Perform At LI Music HOF Holiday Concert​

GREAT NECK, NY — Great Neck student-musicians recently performed at the Long Island Music Hall of Fame's prestigious holiday concert. The event, held at The Space at Westbury theater, featured music students from six Long Island school districts, including John L. Miller Great Neck North and William A. Shine Great Neck South high schools.

Ernie Canadeo, chairman of the Hall of Fame organization's board, said part of the group's mission is to support music education and recognize those that work hard to "inspire the musicians of the future.

"There is no better way to celebrate that commitment than to host a concert where these schools, educators and students can shine," he said.

The students played in front of a packed house, he said. Over 800 people attended the concert, including some surprise guests. Around $42,000 was raised for future music scholarships, including a $12,000 donation from Jill's Dreams Foundation in honor of Jill Nees-Russell, a board member who recently died and was dedicated to supporting the organization's mission.

Joseph Rutkowski, instrumental music director at Great Neck North, called the concert a fantastic opportunity.

"Documenting our activities and asking parents, teachers and administrators for their letters of reference makes us aware of our goal as being music educators: help a new generation of young people realize the significance and joy of listening to and performing music by the great composers," he said.

Receiving the award and performing at the holiday concert enhances students and parents' life experience, he added. They get to listen to other exceptional musicians and vice versa.

Students from the South Great Neck High School Chamber Symphony Orchestra and he Great Neck South High School Chamber Symphony Orchestra and Choir performed as well.

Michael Schwartz, director of instrumental music at Great Neck South, said their students take immense pride in the music program, and demonstrate as such every day in class, rehearsals and at public performances.

"They were so excited to perform in the Long Island Hall of Fame Holiday Concert to represent the Great Neck District, Great Neck South High School, and our music program," Schwartz said. "I could not be more proud of their support, effort and musical performance! The response from the audience and other music directors was the icing on the cake to a perfect day!"