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Spring
concert hits a cheerful note
Special Education Music and Art Show celebrates student talents
 Not
much compares to the passion, enthusiasm and joy in the face of
a young artist displaying his work, or a singer performing her
song. That was evident recently as a large audience of
enthusiastic family and friends cheered on the joyful performers
at the HFM BOCES Special Education Spring Concert and Art Show
on May 28.
 Colorful
paintings, sculpture, drawings and fabric crafts were displayed
on tables and the walls of BOCES’ Conference Center. Nearly 200
children in grades K-12 from schools in the HFM BOCES region created something
for the event, either exhibiting artwork or performing an upbeat
song or lively dance.
The audience of more than 200 people quickly found seats for the
music concert that began the evening. Michael Jacob, HFM
director of special education, welcomed everyone to the special
event.
“The students and their teachers have worked very hard preparing
for this night,” Mr. Jacob said. “I know they appreciate your
support.”
Dozens of students gathered in front of the audience to sing.
Under the direction of music teacher Catherine Cole, the smiling
group performed three songs, often accompanied by dance steps
and hand gestures. The crowd clapped along enthusiastically.
Gloversville student Zachery Parisi next took the stage alone to
sing a rendition of “Delta Dawn.” The 17-year-old was encouraged
by the audience clapping in time with the music.
 Several
students of Marcia Woolley, all members of Helen Neet’s deaf and
hard-of-hearing class at Jansen Avenue Elementary School,
performed the Virginia Reel and danced to “Rocky Top,” the
official song of the state of Tennessee. The audience was
invited to a reprise of the Virginia Reel, and a crowd of
students and adults joined together for toe-tapping fun.
The students enjoyed themselves through every step of the
program, which was reflected in the appreciative support of the
audience. Parents vied for position to snap photos and video
over the heads of their neighbors, while others just sat and
smiled as their child or grandchild had their moment on stage.
 “It’s
a wonderful program and gives the children a chance to show off
their talents,” said Joan Coco, whose granddaughter Karisa
participated in the show.
Once the music ended, everyone was invited to enjoy the art on
display around the room.
Distinctive creations awaited visitors as they wandered among
the displays. The work represented projects developed throughout
the school year. A large, three dimensional barn and barnyard
sat on display in one corner. Bright, colorful characters
adorned pictures on the wall. A large yellow banner revealed
itself as a series of prints made by applying paint to the side
of fish and using it like a rubber stamp to make impressions on
paper.
“It is very happy-looking art," said a visitor to her companion.
“It makes me feel better just to look at it.”
Many young artists proudly showed family members their work,
while many were excited about the refreshments that rewarded the
performers and their guests.
“The performances and art displays tonight highlighted the many
accomplishments made by the students during the year," Mr. Jacob
said. “The entire HFM BOCES community greatly enjoyed the
opportunity to celebrate our students’ many special talents and
gifts.” |
