Updates from Annapolis!

The Alvirne High School Concert and Stage Bands were both awarded "Superior" ratings, the highest possible, during the closing ceremonies of the Annapolis 2008 Music Festival. In addition, three special "Maestro's Awards" were given by the judges. Of these 3 awards, and competing with 16 bands, 2 of the 3 awards went to Alvirne students. Maestro's Awards were awarded to the Alvirne High School Stage Band Trumpet Section, and to Linda Caporale for her work on drums. Once again the bands went on the road and performed in a manner that makes us all very proud.

Photos from the Annapolis trip are available on the AHS Music Shutterfly site:

http://ahsmusic.shutterfly.com

Mr. Gerry Bastien selected as Educator of the Year by Hudson Grange #11

Hudson’s District Music Coordinator, Gerry Bastien, was honored by Hudson Grange #11 as Educator of the Year on Tuesday, April 22. He was praised for his dedication to the Alvirne Music Program and the Hudson community. The award was presented by Master Jerry Leclerc, Lady Assistant Steward Sarah Leclerc and Assistant Steward Matt Haefner. Sarah and Matt are music students currently under Mr. Bastien's direction.

Each year Hudson Grange #11 gives an award to a Community Citizen, Police Officer, Firefighter and Educator. The awards are given to honor outstanding Hudson citizens who demonstrate a commitment to their job and the community that they serve. The Police Award went to Officer Kevin Sullivan and his canine partner Akim, the Firefighter Award was given to Dean Sulin and the Citizens Award went to Philip and Alvin Rodgers.

AHS and HMS Stage Bands Celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month

Each April, the United States celebrates Jazz Appreciation Month (JAM). Initiated by the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History, the intention of JAM is to draw public attention to the extraordinary heritage and history of jazz and its importance as an American cultural heritage.

On Thursday, April 24 the Alvirne High School and Hudson Memorial Middle School stage bands joined the celebration by sharing the stage in the high school's Steckevicz Gymatorium. The Hudson Memorial Stage Band, under the direction of Rob Scagnelli, played six tunes including Moanin', Birth of the Blues and Satin Doll. The AHS Stage Band, under the direction of District Music Coordinator Gerry Bastien, treated an appreciative audience to six jazz standards of their own; with Blues in Hoss Flat, In the Mood, and Caravan among the featured numbers.

To conclude this inaugural event the AHS and HMS Stage Band played a crowd pleasing rendition of Wild Cherry's "Play That Funky Music". Members of both groups took the solo mic to demonstrate their improvisational skills.

The Friends of Music presents the 3rd Annual Pasta Palooza

Tables covered in red and white checked tablecloths topped by bowls filled with grapes, red balloons bouncing gently in the breeze flowing through an open door, two tall white columns draped with grapevines framing the entrance. Italian music and the fragrance of tomato sauce wafted through the air as Alvirne music students welcomed patrons and waited tables.

The Alvirne cafeteria was transformed into an Italian Cafe on Friday, April 25 as the Alvirne High School Friends of Music served up the 3rd Annual Pasta Palooza. Spaghetti with meat sauce, Italian bread, and a fresh tossed salad topped off by dessert was enjoyed by many residents of Hudson and the surrounding areas.

Besides enjoying a delicious dinner that they didn't have to cook themselves, diners also had a chance to purchase raffle tickets and win some fabulous items donated by local residents and businesses. Raffles prizes and winners are as follows: Work-out-World: G.G. Brussard and Brian Holt, Hand Family Chiropractic: Bob Everett, Goodale's Bike Shop: Jim Dogul, Mel's Tee-Off: Joe Kraemer, Disney Globe: Jen Lavery, Hi Lites: Lisa Haggerty, O’Neil Theater tickets: Jim Dogul and Nancy Bernard, Best Buy: Cheryl Cerato, Mel's Tee-Off: Diane Sirvydas, Courtyard Marriot: Grace Kennedy, T-Bones: G.G. Brussard, Virginia Gattenby and Deborah Reston, Castleander Beads: Sandra Dupont, European Cafe: Alyssa McDonald, Alvirne Broncos Ornament: Cathy Searles, Handmade Jewelry (by Sirvydas Design): Brian Holt, Broncos Horse ornament: Rob Everett, Handmade Quilt (by Sue McKenney): Allyson Jutras.

The Alvirne High School Friends of Music congratulates all of the lucky raffle winners and extends an invitation to everyone for the 4th Annual Pasta Palooza!

AHS Fundraisers

Latest News

SAVE THE DATE

  • April 24 AHS/HMS Jazz Night, AHS Gym 7pm
  • April 25 Pasta Palooza, AHS Cafeteria 4pm-7pm
  • April 30 - May 4 -> Band Trip, Annapolis
  • May 29 -> Spring Concert
  • See the calendar for more details on events