School choirs across the nation auditioned for the 2022 National Association for Music Education All-National Conference. The Chamber Singers of The Stony Brook School were selected as one of only eight programs invited to perform at the conference.
Faculty and students made the 5 ½ hour drive to National Harbor, MD, to perform in front of attendees and representatives from NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association). Students not only performed but were able to partake in the conference as well. “When we arrived at the Gaylord [Convention Center], we were met by an extravagant expo hall filled with both music products and companies along with college music program representatives. I am extremely grateful to not only be part of such a talented group but also to have an instructor (Dustin Ramirez) who cares not just about our success but about our development as dedicated young men and women.” Lilly Keegan `23. Fellow senior Emmanuel Avila echoed those sentiments of their instructor: “Mr. Ramirez’s enthusiasm for teaching music is what really motivates the class to do well on performances. He makes the class not just learn songs note by note, but he also shows us how important each marking on the page is to make the songs more lively.”
On the momentous accomplishment, Director of Performing Arts, Dustin Ramirez, says “I am extremely proud of how the Chamber Singers represented The Stony Brook School! The students have worked hard all semester to showcase what they are so good at. It was a pleasure to perform for music educators from across the nation and hear the feedback regarding the great work our school is doing! To be one of eight groups selected for this performance opportunity was a true honor, and I’m so proud to have been a small part of the process.”