ARMONK, NY — How to connect the community through music. That was the puzzle that Byram Hills District choral teachers and Director of Fine Arts Deepak Marwah started working on after everyone was sent home because of the coronavirus pandemic.
The answer seemed obvious.
“Students had recently performed in the District Choral Festival with great spirit and success, therefore, we decided to coordinate a similar all-inclusive choral virtual performance,” Marwah said.
The selection also seemed obvious, once they made it.
“We chose the song ‘Stand Together’ by Jim Papoulis for its message of unity,” said Dana Celestino, chorus teacher at Wampus Elementary School.
The project was compiled and edited by Brian Melso of the district’s Media Center and featured 44 individual videos submitted by students that delivered an inspiring and timely message.
The student response was overwhelmingly positive.
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“This project was special to me because it felt like we were all together again, singing the song that everyone loved and practiced for so long,” said fifth grader Brett Kaplan.
“Being able to sing about the power of community and togetherness, while also being present with my own community, helped me feel optimistic,” said high school senior Alex Dempsey.
The song has become an anthem for the community during the new coronavirus outbreak.
“The text expresses the powerful belief that when we are united together with one voice, our potential for greatness is stronger than when we stand alone,” said Jonah Piali, Byram Hills High School Choir director.
“Nothing feeds the soul like the joy of making music,” said Kate Smith, H.C. Crittenden chorus teacher. “We continue to find ways to support one another to make beautiful music, and look forward to the days when we can be together again.”