A few months ago, a music teacher at Horace Mann Elementary School in North Bergen was trying to find an affordable way to bring her chorus members to see the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. She never imagined that the search would catapult them onto the same stage as the Rockettes.
Melissa Welz said that after emailing the address on the Radio City Music Hall’s website about taking her 80 students on a trip, she received a response that not only outlined group discounts, but asked if her students would like to audition to be an opening act at one of the shows.
Welz chose 40 students and selected “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” as their song. Then they began rehearing.
For the first time ever, her students sang a cappella (without instruments) and in three-part harmony. She said that before that, her students had always sung in two parts or in unison with the aid of music behind their voices.
“I’m excited because I get to be on the stage that I always watched.” – Student Carolina Gamarra
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After recording a performance and sending in a DVD, her chorus went to audition at Radio City Music Hall. Last week they learned that they had been selected to open for the 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 14 Radio City Christmas Spectacular show.
“It’s a big step; they haven’t really gone on a field trip and sang anywhere else other then Christmas concerts locally,” said Welz, who said she was proud that they would be singing on Broadway.
Eight grader Carolina Gamarra said that she remembered seeing the time-honored show as a child with her older sister and had always wanted to become a Rockette.
“I was nervous [at the audition] because there are so many people that go there, but I’m excited because I get to be on the stage that I always watched,” said Gamarra.
Getting the butterflies
Gamarra said that she is nervous to be performing at the 5,933 seat music hall, but is relieved that her family will be there to support her.
Welz said that her students are, for the most part, not nervous about the upcoming show, but that she still “hasn’t calmed down.”
Students will be able to spend some time backstage before taking the stage. After their performance they will be seated in the orchestra for the show.
Fifth grader Nikole Marin said that it will be her first time seeing the show. She said singing in a three-part harmony wasn’t so difficult because they just had to “find a melody together” and because Welz is a good teacher.
Still Marin, had the butterflies at the audition.
Nikhil Vats, a seventh grader, said he felt honored to be one of the few baritones chosen for the performance. He isn’t scared, but happy.
“I would be nervous if I had to perform by myself, but everyone is so good,” said Kimberly Rodriguez, an eighth grade chorus member.
New experience
Principal Jorge Prado said he was proud of the work that Welz and the students had done and will be attending the trip with them.
“A lot of kids don’t get the chance to go to New York City to see a show, let alone perform,” said Prado. “I think it’s an honor for them.”
Vice Principal Michael Guasconi said that if he were in their shoes, he would be nervous.
Welz said that she was grateful that her school’s administration, as well as Superintendent Robert Dandorph, helped and supported her throughout the process.
Horace Mann students and parents can attend the show at a discounted price. Welz said that the discount applies to all sections of Radio City and that those interested can email her at mwelzmusic@gmail.com for the promotional code. Tickets can be purchased online.
“I’m just going to try and get my inner peace and sing the best I can,” said Marin.
Tricia Tirella may be reached at TriciaT@hudsonreporter.com.