The alumni choir concert stands out as one of the most meaningful performances in the school’s music program. Unlike a typical concert, this one brings together current choir students and graduates from many different decades to perform side by side. The result is not only a larger group of singers, but also a powerful sense of history, community, and shared love for music.
ELHS choir teacher Anthony Maiese recalled one simple but unforgettable moment during warm-ups last year when
the full choir sang a major chord together. Hearing the large group create such “real rich, big choir sound… was so simple, but there was a definite sense of ‘Woah… that was nice,’” Mr. Maiese said. That sound reminded everyone how special the event truly is. Even small moments like that can leave a lasting impression.
“One of the best parts of the alumni concert is getting to meet the current students and… watching them do what they love is a real treat for those of us who love it too,” ELHS 1999 graduate and alumni performer Michelle Williams said.
Singing alongside alumni helps them understand the legacy of the program and see how music can remain a huge part of life long after graduation.
“Having people from the first graduating class of ELHS is such an amazing experience and a beautiful way to connect with people that have followed the legacy of ELHS,” senior and four-year choir performer Cameron D’ettore said.
Mr. Maiese, the most obvious distinction in this concert is the presence of returning alumni from as far back as the ELHS Class of 1970. Their participation gives current students a chance to sing with a much larger ensemble. For this occasion, the choir numbers climbed to “almost four times the size, adding so many mature, skilled, and motivated singers to the ensemble,” Mr. Maiese said.
Beyond the musical benefits, the concert is also deeply personal. Mr. Maiese described how special it is to see familiar faces return two years in a row. This alumni concert is the second time Mr. Maiese has decided to take on, and to reconnect with his past students. He shared that it feels “nostalgic” to reconnect with past students, as well as
those who “predate [his] arrival to ELHS.” This year’s event was especially meaningful because a former choir director, MaryAnn Liniak-Bodwell, returned to conduct a few songs and sing with the group.
Mr. Maiese believes alumni come back not only to have the singing experience once again, but also because the choir creates a safe and supportive space during the high school years.
“As teachers, we hope that there’s at least one thing that students enjoy about being in high school,” and “for so many students, music classes are those unique spaces,” Mr. Maiese said. Many students feel valued and connected through music, and returning to perform helps them relive that experience. Some alumni even learn and practice music on their own time, or travel long distances just for the chance to be part of the concert again. To Mr. Maiese, that dedication shows how meaningful choir is to so many students.
