NFA Musical Groups Perform for Holiday Shoppers

The Newburgh Free Academy Main Chamber Strings and the Madrigal Choir performed for the patrons of the Newburgh Mall, in the center court. The Madrigals, under the choral direction of Mr. Thomas Swetz sang several favorite holiday songs including Silent Night, The First Noel and We Wish You a Merry Christmas. When they completed their presentation, the Chamber Strings immediately began their performance. Under the direction of Ms. Monica Antonelli-Guido, the ensemble played several traditional Christmas songs including as well as the Carol of the Bells, Deck the Halls, Adeste Fidelis, and the Dreidle Song. Later, the groups spread to different sections of the mall to perform for patrons throughout the space. 

Both groups continued this movement until they once again met at the center court. As the Chamber Strings performed the well-known music for Hallelujah Chorus, the Madrigals joined with them and sang the lyrics. It was quite obvious the NFA students brought needed cheer to the Mall shoppers as they milled around the different performances. Applause was loudly given indicating the approval of the audiences.

The NFA musicians even gained the “nod” from a special visitor who was seated in the center court…Santa Claus, himself, was heard to say they were very very nice! Ho! Ho! Ho!

These students will be performing in the NFA Winter Concert I on December 22nd at 7pm (includes alumni/community Hallelujah Chorus!) and NFA Winter Concert II on January 18th at 7pm.

Photos and write-up adaption from Mr. James R. Formato, courtesy of Mrs. Monica Antonelli-Guido. 

ATTENTION: Are your scholars or colleagues doing something great? Please contact the district Communications Team at communications@necsd.net. We’d love to visit your class or event and/or post your pictures and recap to highlight the amazing accomplishments throughout our district!