WELCOME
Alumni & Friends of Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts
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ALUMNI & FRIENDS HIGHLIGHTS
Monday March 20th, 2023
Mark your calendars for these amazing performances and exhibits at LaGuardia! More info at www.laguardiahs.org/events
Wednesday March 15th, 2023
Highlights of our amazing LaGuardia Dance Department!
Wednesday March 15th, 2023
Alumni & Friends was so happy to purchase this organ for the music department! See T.J. Walker, Music Director for Gospel Choir, enjoying the new instrument in the LaG recording studio.
Wednesday March 15th, 2023
Check out Carlos Henriquez (LaG '97) performing at Dizzy's on April 16! "Grammy-nominated bassist and composer Carlos Henriquez celebrates the life and artistry of era-defining instrumentalist and band leader Mario Bauzá. Credited by many musicians and historians as the first artist to push clave in new directions, the prolific big band leader from Havana enjoyed pivotal associations with Chick Webb, Dizzy Gillespie, and Tito Puente. Henriquez interprets Bauzá’s canon with buoyant interplay, melodicism, and energetic performance." 2023.jazz.org/carlos-henriquez-celebrates-mario-bauza
Tuesday March 14th, 2023
Looking for acting classes with an alumnus? The Ruskin School of Acting New York Studio is opening on April 1, 2023, and Alison Bartlett (LaG '89) will be leading the following classes: Scene Study with Master Teachers Class, Children's Classes, and On Camera Class. www.ruskinschool.com/new-york-acting-classes
"Alison Bartlett is an Award Winning Writer, Emmy Nominated Actress, and Director. She made her Off Broadway acting debut at the age of 12 in "Landscape of The Body" directed by Gary Sinise.
Her Broadway debut was in David Rabe's "Hurlyburly" directed by Mike Nichols. From 1986-2015, she starred as the role of Gina on the world wide acclaimed television show "Sesame Street".
Known for her recurring roles on HBO's "The Sopranos", & FX's "Rescue Me", she has guest starred on numerous TV shows and received an Emmy Nomination for "Outstanding Performer in a Children's Special" for her lead performance in ABC's Afterschool Special "It's Only Rock & Roll". As a screenplay writer Alison has won a Silver Remi at the Worldfest-Houston International Film Festival; was a Semi-Finalist at Big Apple Film Festival and Screenplay Competition, and was an Official Selection of the Atlanta International Screenplay Awards."
Gypsy Kann
Tuesday March 14th, 2023
Marlon Wayans (LaG '90) recently hosted Comedy Central's "The Daily Show" and his guest was fellow classmate Omar Epps (LaG '90)! Watch them reminisce about growing up together and highlighting LaGuardia!
Omar just released a book "Nubia: The Awakening" - "a powerful saga of three teens, the children of refugees from a fallen African utopia, who must navigate their newfound powers in a climate-ravaged New York City." www.amazon.com/Nubia-Awakening-Omar-Epps/dp/0593428676/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=
Amazing!!! ❤️
Omar Epps (AKA Foreman on House) is an Alum?! That's excellent!
These were classic LAG moments. Nothing like that forever H.S. bond. 💙💙💙
Love this!!🖤
Oh the days when the new school was brand new!
Tuesday March 14th, 2023
8th floor art stroll! One hour paintings in Joyce Riley’s Advanced Painting class! The assignment was to paint your classmate.
Love this! I’m class of ‘95. Reminds me of my POTW (Painting off the Wall) class with Jody Morris Sunshine 🥰🎨
I did that assignment with my 3rd graders....and were they straight on the mark....great assignment to really hone it in our little facial picadillos.
Monday March 13th, 2023
Check out this interview with comic artist Shawn Martinbrough (LaG '89), and view his exhibit at the Society Of Illustrators, thru March 18!
How Shawn Martinbrough became a Jack of all comic trades
www.thepopverse.com
hawn Martinbrough: From artist to writer to exhibit curatorMonday March 13th, 2023
Read a great interview with Rachel Watanabe-Batton (M&A '83), the Emmy-winning executive producer of Disney+’s "Sneakerella," a movie that retells the Cinderella fairytale. Set in modern-day Queens, the story centers around sneaker culture. The 2022 film won four Children’s and Family Emmys, and was nominated for 11. THe movie is currently streaming on Disney+.
“Sneakerella” Executive Producer Rachel Watanabe-Batton | Exclusive Interview
whatsondisneyplus.com
Last year, the Disney+ Original film,Saturday March 11th, 2023
You don’t want to miss the Spring Drama Festival production of “Rent” at LaG - March 14-17 at 7pm! Director Laura Fries. Tickets are going fast: www.tix.com/ticket-sales/laguardiahs/699
I have 2 tickets available for Wednesday 3/15 @7pm performance of RENT. Center, Row M. Great seats! There are no more center seats available. My friends cannot make it unfortunately. Let me know:)
Friday March 10th, 2023
Happy #fiorellofriday! Jazz students welcoming us into the building today!
Amazing school
Oh I miss playing in jazz band w JD leading us
Wednesday March 8th, 2023
Enjoy some of Senior Art Show #2 in the LaGuardia gallery! Always so impressive!
Wednesday March 8th, 2023
Get your tickets for the operetta “The Merry Widow” March 16-18! www.tix.com/ticket-sales/laguardiahs/699
Tuesday March 7th, 2023
Have you ever seen such delectable popcorn? 2nd year Art students making us proud (and hungry)! Teachers - Ms. Park and Ms. Codorean.
Rebekah Albert all the ways to eat all the popcorn 🍿
Absolutely beautiful!
Wonderful work
Monday March 6th, 2023
Enjoy a trip down memory lane! Here is the old Music & Art school song, “Now Upward in Wonder,” set to Brahms 1st Symphony, 4th movement, 2nd theme.
NOW UPWARD IN WONDER
Now upward in wonder
our distant glances turning
Where brightly through ages
the immortal light is burning
Our task unending
defending
that realm above
‘Till dull and lifeless things have caught
a beauty that daring dreams have wrought
Don’t they still sing it? We were told that whenever we heard The Brahms 1st Symphony,we would always think of M&A
New song to replace the old one? I always loved that song. So different from other school songs. As is/was the school! We
I work very hard not to sing the words when I happen to hear that movement.
Just heard Brahms 1st recently and started singing our song. Amazed myself that I still remembered the words. After all I graduated in '63. Anyone live in South Florida? It would be interesting if we could put a group together down here.
I played this for my audition to get into music and art on the viola!
There are some small differences between the lyrics shown above by the A&F and those in the illustration. With one exception, the illustration is correct. The exception is the final word, which is "wrought", not "brought". I have previously posted here the tale of attending a Peter Yarrow concert and chatting with him in the lobby as he signed books during intermission. When I said we were fellow M&A alums, he asked if I remembered the school song (testing me perhaps?). I said I did and he said, “Good, let’s sing it now.” Which we did, with nary a musical or poetic error, receiving laughter and applause from the milling crowd. A fun memory.
I guess if you really want to remember anything, learn it to music! I certainly remember this. People with dementia can often sing along to Christmas carols, for example. We had a beautiful school song.
Friday March 3rd, 2023
As part of an ongoing collaboration with Interlochen Center for the Arts, the LaGuardia Gospel Choir will be featured in a performance at David Geffen Hall tonight, March 3! The performance is being hosted by the New York Philharmonic, featuring 140 Interlochen Arts Academy Students. Interlochen conductor Leslie B. Dunner (M&A '74) will conduct the Arts Academy Orchestra as part of a multidisciplinary performance.
www.interlochen.org
Interlochen conductor Leslie B. Dunner will lead the Philharmonic on March 2 and 4, 2023 and conduct the Arts Academy Orchestra as part of a multidisciplinary performance presented by Academy students...Went to JHS and M&A with Leslie. Doesn't surprise me that he is so accomplished. Had lots of fun together, especially who was dressed the best in school lol.
Thursday March 2nd, 2023
Sneak preview of the amazing Senior Art Show #2: ONESELF, opening Friday, March 3!
PREVIEW 1:30-2:30pm, OPENING CELEBRATION 2:30-7pm,
On Saturday, March 4, the show is open 11am-2pm.
So different from my days at M&A, when abstraction was the thing.
Wednesday March 1st, 2023
Congratulations to Aryeh Nussbaum Cohen, Countertenor (LaG '11) and Erika Baikoff (LaG '12) on receiving 2023 George London Awards for opera singers - $12,000!
The George London Awards have been given since 1971.
Winners are selected from an annual applicant pool of over 150 opera singers. From these, a maximum of 90 singers are selected to participate in a preliminary round over the course of three days.
Typically, applicants are asked to sing two arias for the panel of judges, but may be asked to sing a third.
Following the preliminary round, up to 15 singers are selected to compete in the finals before an audience at the Morgan Library and Museum. Each finalist sings one aria selected by the judges. Immediately following the performance, the judges deliberate and up to 5 George London Awards of $12,000 each are given to the winners.
www.georgeandnoralondon.org
About the George and Nora London Foundation Competition and Awards The George London Awards have been given since 1971. Winners are selected from an annual applicant pool of over 150 opera singers....we must shout 'well done' to these young people who gift us with their talent and intrepid grit and stamina...to 'follow their dream.'
Cheers & Congrats. Super entertaining, impactful and inspiring.
Nicole & Sophia Orrico
Wednesday March 1st, 2023
Check out the memoir, "Village Idiot," by former LaGuardia student and actor David Sheinkopf, about growing up in Greenwich Village in the early 1980s.
"Ever wonder what it's like to grow up in Greenwich Village and live the fast life of a teenage kid who's breaking into the brilliant inside world of modeling and television, meeting beautiful girls, hanging out with neighborhood kids willing to try anything once, and doing recreational drugs of every stripe? Here, by turns, is the revealing, deeply touching, hilarious, and heart breaking story of a twelve-year-old who does just that-who goes from print modeling to soap operas, makes serious money and spends it like it's going out of style, suffers painful losses, crashes into one catastrophe after another, runs into real emotional and physical trouble. . .and survives because, at root, he has a good heart. It's a tale of faith in oneself and triumph over tough odds that leave some of his nearest and dearest dead, strung out, or doing hard time."
Thank you so much for the post! And to all my friends and fellow Alumni you can grab a copy here! Village Idiot: A Manhattan Memoir a.co/d/b6pZXg5
Josh Milder😳
Tuesday February 28th, 2023
Check out the 40th-anniversary revival of "Mama I Want to Sing!" featuring 3 LaGuardia students - Elise Silva, Asa Sulton, and Faith Cochrane at the Heckscher Theatre, 104th and 5th Avenue, through March 12, 2023.
Fun fact: The original production featured famed Motown singer, Desiree Coleman (M&A '83)!
‘Mama, I Want to Sing!’ Returns for 40th Anniversary
www.nytimes.com
Gospel soul returns to the stage as the long-running musical is revived for Black History Month at El Museo’s El Teatro.Tuesday February 28th, 2023
Check out two LaG '15 alumni - Jonah Bobo and Brendan Jacob Smith - performing in “The Simon & Garfunkel Story” Friday, March 3 at the Kings Theatre in Brooklyn, 1027 Flatbush Avenue. Special offer for $20 tickets - use promotional code: KINGSCARES - www.kingstheatre.com/calendar/the-simon-garfunkel-story/
See the full tour schedule here: www.eventticketscenter.com/the-simon-and-garfunkel-story-brooklyn-tickets/622396/e?gclid=Cj0KCQiA...
Kings Theatre - The Simon & Garfunkel Story
www.kingstheatre.com
The Simon & Garfunkel Story is touring North America again this year! Using huge projection photos and original film footage, featuring a full live band performing all the hits including ‘Mrs. Robin...Paul Simon Sr. was my music teacher when I was in JHS17, NYC.
I have tickets but unfortunately i won’t be able to attend the concert, if you are interested in buying send me a message please.
Special offer for $20 tickets - use promotional code: KINGSCARES - www.kingstheatre.com/calendar/the-simon-garfunkel-story/
Monday February 27th, 2023
This year 5 amazing productions will be featured in LaGuardia’s annual Spring Drama Festival: Rent (March 14-17), You on the Moors Now (March 28-31), Our Town (May 2-5), The Laramie Project (May 23, 25), The Laramie Project: Ten Years Later (May 24, 26). Tickets will be available at www.tix.com/ticket-sales/laguardiahs/699
Friday February 17th, 2023
Happy #fiorellofriday! Look at these amazing self portraits from first year LaG art students! Wow! Stephanie Mulvihill, Teacher.
💯👏👏👏WoW!!
the kids are so amazingly talented.
So much talent
Thursday February 16th, 2023
We are excited to announce that 3 LaGuardia students - Elise Silva, Asa Sulton, and Faith Cochrane - will be starring in the revival of the longest-running African-American Off-Broadway Show, "MAMA, I Want to Sing!" at the Heckscher Theatre, 104th and 5th Avenue, February 23-March 12, 2023. www.mamaiwanttosing.com/
This production, based on the life of famed singer Doris Troy, was written by Vy Higgenson and originally produced and directed by her husband Ken Wydro in 1983 to critical acclaim and ran for 8 YEARS! The original production featured famed Motown singer, Desiree Coleman (M&A '83).
Saw this in late '86 or early '87. Great story line, amazing music.
wow!
Thursday February 16th, 2023
Check out this wonderful book by Philip Langellotti (M&A '67), author of "The Adventures of the Runaway Wheelchair: Into the Atmosphere." You can purchase the book at: www.amazon.com/Adventures-Runaway-Wheelchair-Into-Atmosphere/dp/1480871060
"The story follows Mikey, a precocious and scientifically-inclined pre-teen wheelchair user who learns about climate change and the importance of environmental conservation after being sent into space by his wheelchair when it comes to life one night.
Langellotti worked as a lab technician and adjunct lecturer in natural and criminal science at John Jay College of Criminal Justice in Manhattan, New York, until he was paralyzed in a 1982 car accident. The idea for the book started germinating in his head since the mid-1990s when he was a stay-at-home dad caring for his kids."
Read a full interview here: unitedspinal.org/philip-langellotti/
Friday February 10th, 2023
Happy #FiorelloFriday! Yesterday morning the LaG Gospel Chorus and band performed at the former Music & Art building - “the Castle on the Hill,” now the home of A. Philip Randolph High School. What an amazing experience for current LaG students to feel the power and history in the M&A auditorium while performing for the students at A. Philip Randolph and local Harlem schools!
Love this!❤️
Awesome!
Wonderful!  They get to experience the acoustics of the  auditorium.
Exactly where the gospel chorus got it’s start during my cohort Class of 1972
❤
Class of 77❣️❤️👍🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
That is so awesome!
My dream was always to be a member of the Gospel Choir (Class of ‘76)
I miss that stage!
Wow! That's awesome!
Wow, what an inspiring experience!
Senior chorus class of 68!
The M & A Gospel Chorus sounds just as good as it did in the 70’s, when I had the privilege of singing with them, when we were still in “ The Castle on the Hill”‼️It was magical ❣️🎶🎵🎤 Bravo‼️
Class of 72…..we were the “unofficial” gospel chorus. We used to practice on the steps.
Love that stage, auditorium M&A ‘68
Tuesday February 7th, 2023
Friday, Feb. 10, 2:30-7pm! Join us for the first Senior Art Show opening “What Have I Become?” All adults 18 and over must show proof of vaccination and ID.
Tuesday February 7th, 2023
Shoutout to Slick Rick (M&A '83), who received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2023 Grammys! See his acceptance speech at 2:24 on the video:
www.grammy.com/videos/watch-nirvana-the-supremes-niles-rodgers-receive-lifetime-achievement-award...
"In an historic event, the Recording Academy honored titans of the music industry — past and present — at the 2023 Special Merit Awards Ceremony & 65th Annual GRAMMY Nominees Reception.".
M&A fir ever! Congratulations
Great honor! M&A 4 Life!
yeah... Im PA '58 music
Monday February 6th, 2023
Congratulations to Erica Gimpel (PA '82), who stars in the new AMC series 'Mayfair Witches" on AMC!
"Based on Anne Rice’s iconic series, Mayfair Witches explores female empowerment and the mortal implications of our decisions. The series follows Rowan, an intuitive young neurosurgeon who discovers she possesses supernatural abilities—and a daunting legacy." deadline.com/2022/04/anne-rice-projects-at-amc-cast-annabeth-gish-erica-gimpel-jen-richards-more-...
More about "Mayfair Witches" here:
www.amc.com/shows/anne-rice-s-mayfair-witches--1059404
Anne Rice Projects At AMC Cast Annabeth Gish, Erica Gimpel, Jen Richards, Tongayi Chirisa & More
deadline.com
EXCLUSIVE: AMC has announced several new castings for Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire and Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches, which have begun production this week in New Orleans. For Mayfair Witc...Friday February 3rd, 2023
Happy #FiorelloFriday! Enjoy a bit of today’s morning lobby performance!
Tuesday January 31st, 2023
Check out this great new documentary film that Dave Powell (LaG '89) collaborated on, "Rabble Rousers: Frances Goldin and the Fight for Cooper Square."
It will premiere at Firehouse Cinema (87 Lafayette Street) March 24-26, 2023!
Tickets can be purchased at:
firehouse.dctvny.org/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=369416~2998286f-8e4b-4c31-9017-dcced8ffebb3&
Enter the code "RabbleDCTV" to get tickets at a discount price.
"Our film is about a community on the LES that successfully fought back against forces of displacement for over five decades: urban renewal, white flight, government abandonment, violence, arson, drugs, and gentrification. Through tenacious organizing and hundreds of community meetings, they not only held their ground but also developed a vision of community control. Fifty three years later, they established NY state’s first community land trust - and preserved a diverse, vibrant and permanently affordable neighborhood in the heart of the “real estate capital of the world.'”
www.rabblerousersdoc.com/
Rabble Rousers Documentary (2022)
www.rabblerousersdoc.com
Documentary film Rabble Rousers about Frances Goldin and her 50 year long activism fight against gentrification of Cooper Square Lower East Side Manhattan New York City NYC by Ryan Joseph, Kathryn Bar...Monday January 30th, 2023
Shoutout to Yvette Washington-Wheatley (M&A '77) who is named Staten Island Woman of Achievement for her work as a passionate music teacher.
www.silive.com
Her dad shared his love of the art with her.Wow.
A beautiful article. Congratulations!
Congratulations
Beautiful lady, beautiful story. I grew up in the same neighborhood and am also a music teacher.
Thursday January 26th, 2023
Tonight (Jan. 26) at Carnegie Hall, 7:30pm, the LaGuardia Senior Chorus (Jana Ballard, Choral Director) will be performing in “We Are Here” - a concert of songs written in the ghettos and concentration camps of occupied Europe.
The concert will honor the memory of all those who were murdered, and highlight the artists and writers who, in the worst of times, continued to create. With music direction by Lee Musiker plus performances and readings from pop artists, broadway stars, and cantors, this powerful commemorative concert will include a candle-lighting ceremony and memorial prayers.
www.wearehereconcert.com
We Are Here is a concert of songs written in the ghettos and concentration camps of occupied-Europe that will be performed on January 26, 2023 at Carnegie Hall.Wednesday January 25th, 2023
Congratulations to Chloë Cheers (LaG '23, Drama) and Fiorela Miria (LaG '23, Vocal) for being nominated for the 2023 U.S. Presidential Scholars in the Arts!
"This is one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students who exemplify artistic and academic excellence. YoungArts is the sole nominating agency for this high honor, and the 60 candidates, representing 21 states and Americans abroad, and nine artistic disciplines, are all YoungArts award winners. Open to YoungArts award winners at the Finalist level, 2023 National YoungArts Week included masterclasses and workshops during which the artists were further evaluated for nomination to the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, as well as performances, writers’ readings, film screenings and an exhibition, allowing audiences opportunities to meet and experience these outstanding artists and their work."
60 Accomplished Young Artists Nominated for 2023 U.S. Presidential Scholars in the Arts
youngarts.org
The National Foundation for the Advancement of ArtistsWednesday January 25th, 2023
Shoutout to Jonas Barranca (LaG '07), who stars in the romantic comedy 'Townhouse Confidential,' with a showing on January 25 at 7pm at THE VILLAGE East by Angelika, 181-189 2nd Avenue. The film will be released through digital outlets on January 31, 2023, and on DVD.
www.broadwayworld.com/bwwtv/article/Jonas-Barranca-to-Appear-in-Film-TOWNHOUSE-CONFIDENTIAL-20230122
"When the three Perry sisters, Elizabeth, Lydia, and Mary, inherit a New York City townhouse from their Jane Austen-loving parents, the race is on to find a wealthy tenant to rent their garden apartment to cover their mortgage, taxes, and repairs to avoid losing their home and being forced to move to cheaper digs in New Jersey. Could arrogant real estate mogul George Barrow, a Darcyesque bachelor with no pets or kids, be Elizabeth's prince charming who saves the day or is his courtship just a ploy to put her townhouse into contract and turn the West Village into a hedgefunder Disneyland? Will Liz be tempted by bad boy handyman Tommy Leroy who looks so hot in a pair of skinny jeans or will she fall prey to married mortgage broker Sal Carmine who wants to get his hands in her pants? And what about Lydia, the scorching hot personal trainer, and Mary, the shy, reserved blogger who rarely leaves her house?"
www.angelikafilmcenter.com/villageeast/film/townhouse-confidential
Jonas Barranca to Appear in Film TOWNHOUSE CONFIDENTIAL
www.broadwayworld.com
Actor Jonas Barranca has the role of Tommy Leroy in the romantic comedy feature film 'Townhouse Confidential,' which has a limited theatrical run beginning January 20, 2023, at The Village East by Ang...Wednesday January 25th, 2023
Jasmin (Danielle) McKenzie (LaG '07) is a principal cast member in the promotional trailers for The New York Times and Hulu's "The 1619 Project." The 6 part docuseries was created by NY Times author Nikole Jones. Jones has also partnered with Lionsgate, Academy Award winning Director Roger Ross Williams and Oprah Winfrey for the collaboration. The docuseries will begin airing January 26th, 2023.
https://www.hulu.com/series/the-1619-project-7ba3407a-299c-4a10-8310-bbcdd6ab4653
www.hulu.com
Hulu’s six-part 1619 Docuseries is an expansion of “The 1619 Project” created by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones and the New York Times Magazine. The series seeks to refram...thank you!❤
Monday January 23rd, 2023
Check out two LaG '15 alumni - Jonah Bobo and Brendan Jacob Smith - performing in “The Simon & Garfunkel Story” Tuesday, Jan. 24 at the Farmington Civic Center, 200 W. Arrington St. in Farmington, NM. Tickets are $18 and $14. fmtn.org/shows
www.daily-times.com/story/entertainment/music/2023/01/21/jonah-bobo-relishes-role-of-songwriter-i...
'Simon & Garfunkel Story' coming to Civic Center features real-life high school pals
www.daily-times.com
Jonah Bobo said he was very comfortable taking on the role of Paul Simon in "The Simon & Garfunkel Story," which comes to the Civic Center this week.Love those guys! The folks in Farmington NM are in for a treat!
But the photo is not of Brendon and Jonah.
Would love to see them. Come to San Diego.🙏
Can’t attend anymore due to plan change Message and like my comment if you need tickets
Monday January 23rd, 2023
Join us Jan. 26 at 6:30pm for the Wind Symphony and Symphonic Band Concert! Adults $20/Students $15. Adults 18 and over must show proof of vaccination and ID.
Friday January 20th, 2023
Check out this 14-minute documentary "Glen Eden" by Rebecca Blandon as part of The Outwin 2022: American Portraiture Today at National Portrait Gallery. The film follows Glen Eden Einbinder's (LaG '87) search for places and things that coincidentally are also named “Glen Eden.” Einbinder started this project by happenstance, after encountering a bottle of whiskey and a postcard for a sun club that shared his name. Since then, he has been collecting hundreds of sundry items—canned peaches, real estate brochures, horse ribbons—anything that bears the name “Glen Eden.”
Rebecca Blandón shares Einbinder’s story as he explores eponymous sites and expands on how he came to the realization that his long-term project was a self-portrait. As his collection grows, so does a community that bridges time and place.
The exhibition will be on view through February 2023 and the videos are available online.
portraitcompetition.si.edu
Glen Eden Einbinder reminds us that “People connect to their name.” Rebecca Blandón traces Einbinder’s search for places and things that coincidentally are also named “Glen Eden.” Einbi...
Thursday January 19th, 2023
Shoutout to alto saxophonist Lakecia Benjamin (LaG '00), who was selected as the 2023 Monterey Jazz Festival Artist-in-Residence. Lakecia will work with young musicians at Monterey’s Summer Jazz Camp and with the Next Generation Jazz Orchestra at the 66th annual Monterey Jazz Festival in September 2023. Lakecia will also be a featured member of Monterey Jazz Festival on Tour—Celebrating 65 Years group that will perform 25 concerts in 12 states from January 17-April 23, 2023. Lakecia is also featured on the February 2023 cover of DownBeat.
montereyjazzfestival.org
Monterey, Calif.; January 17, 2023; Monterey Jazz Festival is proud to announce that alto saxophonist, composer and arranger Lakecia Benjamin has been selected as the 2023 Monterey Jazz Festival Artis...Wednesday January 18th, 2023
Don’t miss the amazing 2023 Winter Dance Showcase on Friday, Jan. 20 at 4pm & 7pm and Saturday, Jan. 21 at 2pm! Tickets will be available at the door - students $15/adults $20. Guests 18 and older must show ID and proof of vaccination.
Tuesday January 10th, 2023
Congratulations to Slick Rick (M&A '83) who will be receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award during Grammy week in February!
And if you're in NYC, check out his gig at Brooklyn Bowl on January 13: www.brooklynbowl.com/events/detail/slick-rick-the-ruler-12728235
According to the Academy, the award is bestowed upon artists who, “during their lifetimes, have made creative contributions of outstanding artistic significance to the field of recording.” The UK-born rapper is considered the most sampled hip hop artist in history. He “set the pace for rap’s past, present and future,” said the organization. Slick Rick is renowned for his lyrical storytelling. His catalog includes classic hits such as “La-Di-Da-Di,” “Children’s Story” and “The Show.” His songs have been used more than 800 times to craft records for the likes of Beyoncé, Snoop Dogg and J. Cole.
Slick Rick to receive Lifetime Achievement Award during Grammy week
www.revolt.tv
Slick Rick is more than deserving of the honor!Congrats My Blak Brotha & Alumni Fan since the beginning (M & A 76')
Tuesday January 10th, 2023
Calling all teaching artists! An alum from 2009 has shared the following teaching artist positions in Sunset Park, Brooklyn.
Center For Family Life in Sunset Park Inc - Job Opportunities
recruiting.paylocity.com
Center For Family Life in Sunset Park Inc Careers Page - View all jobs and opportunities at Center For Family Life in Sunset Park Inc and apply today. | Powered By PaylocityTuesday January 10th, 2023
See the artwork of FIVE alumni in the exhibit "Come a Little Closer," opening January 12, 6-8pm at DC Moore Gallery in Chelsea (535 West 22nd Street). Mary Frank (M&A '49), Whitfield Lovell (M&A '77), Tom Burckhardt (M&A '82), Julia Jacquette (M&A '82), and Katy Schneider (M&A '82).
"The works in this exhibition measure from tiny to 15”. The artists that created them have varied motivations, but all the works are meant to be the size they are; in other words none are preparatory studies. Some play with ideas of “real scale,” some counter our expectations of detail, others luxuriate in the compression of information."
www.dcmooregallery.com/
Friday January 6th, 2023
Here’s a sneak peek at tonight’s amazing Gospel Chorus Concert at 6:30pm! Dr. Darryl Jordan, Choir Director.
Tickets will be available at the door.
All adults 18 and over must show proof of Covid vaccination and ID to attend all LaGuardia events.
Thursday January 5th, 2023
Join us on January 10 and 12 at 6:30pm for the LaGuardia Winter Musicales! Tickets are available online at: www.tix.com/ticket-sales/laguardiahs/699 or available at the door. $20 adults/$15 students. All adults 18 and over must show proof of vaccination and ID.
Winter Musicale #1, January 10
Concert Orchestra, Treble Chorus, Mixed Chorus, Symphony Orchestra
Winter Musicale #2, January 12
String Orchestra, Concert Band, Operetta Workshop, Elementary Chorus, Cantare
A great music event.
Tuesday January 3rd, 2023
Friday, January 6 at 6:30pm join us for the amazing Winter Gospel Concert! Students $15/Adults $20. Tickets will be available at the door. All guests over 18 must show ID and proof of vaccination.
Friday December 23rd, 2022
Happy #fiorellofriday and happy holidays!
Beautiful job M & A🎁🎉
Absolutely gorgeous!!!🤩
Awesome job!!!♥️
Love these arrangements and harmonies!
Great arrangement. Happy holidays
I’d love a copy of this arrangement!
Absolutely amazing.
Friday December 23rd, 2022
For those of you who were unable to attend the wonderful Concert in Celebration of the life of Gabriel Kosakoff on October 17, 2022 at LaGuardia, the video is now available. Please enjoy this beautiful tribute to an incredible educator and human.
Gabriel Kosakoff graduated from the High School of Music & Art in 1944, was part of the Instrumental Music Faculty beginning in 1956, and was the Chair of the department until 1991.
Former faculty member Justin DiCioccio was the music director for the event, which featured performances by Bela Fleck, Larry Aberman, Daniel Druckman, Mark Sherman, Rand Steiger, Kenny Washington, and the LaGuardia High School Brass Ensemble, directed by Kevin Blancq.
Thank you !! ❤️
Abigail Alperstein Ruttenberg
Oh my gosh, to see all these names again... 💖
Kyle Owens did you see this?
Thursday December 22nd, 2022
We mourn the loss of Elayne Jones (M&A '45), age 94. "She was a timpanist who was said to be the first Black principal player in a major American orchestra when she joined the San Francisco Symphony in 1972, and who mounted a legal battle over racial and sexual discrimination when she was denied tenure two years later." Read about her amazing life - www.nytimes.com/2022/12/21/arts/music/elayne-jones-dead.html?
She also wrote the book "Little Lady With a Big Drum" - www.amazon.com/Little-Lady-Drum-Elayne-Jones/dp/1631320661
Elayne Jones, Pioneering Percussionist, Is Dead at 94
www.nytimes.com
She challenged racial barriers when she joined the San Francisco Symphony in 1972. But she became embroiled in a legal battle when she was denied tenure two years later.I wish the school had a class about all the alums.
Thursday December 22nd, 2022
We say goodbye to Stanley Drucker (M&A '44), clarinetist with the NY Philharmonic.
"Mr. Drucker’s longevity with the Philharmonic gave rise to impressive statistics: 10,200 concerts with the orchestra, including 191 solo appearances, and performances of nearly every major clarinet concerto and soloist on more than a dozen recordings. He also recorded most of the standard clarinet chamber music works. He was nominated twice for a Grammy — for recordings of the Aaron Copland Concerto for Clarinet, Strings, Harp and Piano, with Leonard Bernstein conducting, and of John Corigliano’s Concerto for Clarinet and Orchestra, with Zubin Mehta conducting. The Philharmonic commissioned the Corigliano for Mr. Drucker."
(His son Leon - aka Lee Rocker - is a bassist with the rockabilly band Stray Cats. His daughter, Rosanne, is an alt-country singer-songwriter.)
Stanley Drucker, Ageless Clarinetist of the N.Y. Philharmonic, Dies at 93
www.nytimes.com
He played in the orchestra for 60 years, performing under the baton of five music directors. He personified the orchestra’s brilliant, even brash, character.so glad you caught that he went to M&A....good tiding to you.
🙏🏻
Monday December 19th, 2022
Shoutout to Li Jun Li (LaG '01, Dance) who stars in the new film "Babylon" playing a character inspired by the trailblazing Chinese American actress Anna May Wong. Brad Pitt and Margot Robbie star alongside.
"Babylon" Star Li Jun Li on Capturing Anna May Wong Onscreen
www.vanityfair.com
Her character may be named Lady Fay, but Li says she took all her inspiration from the trailblazing Chinese American actor.Congratulations!! 🎉🎈🎊🍾
Congratulations 🎊 👏
Monday December 19th, 2022
Read a great feature on Howard University student Evolone Layne (LaG '20), and her work in STEM. Look how the arts are integrated into everything we do!
Evolone says, “One thing I researched and realized is true is that when you’re in music, you’re very mathematically inclined and it’s natural. When you’re looking at sheet music, math comes into it all the time even if you don’t notice it."
Evolone Layne Is Taking Over STEM, One App at a Time
www.glamour.com
The Howard University junior intertwines her love for music with her passion for AI, and she’s committed to using technology to help her community that is less fortunate.Friday December 16th, 2022
Shoutout to Dharon E. Jones (LaG '16), who stars with Nick Nolte in "Rittenhouse Square," which recently premiered at the Philadelphia Film Festival! filmdaily.co/craft/spotlight/rittenhouse-square-film/
"Rittenhouse Square contains themes such as hope, friendship, divinity, and the importance of mental health. It is about a young man named KJ who befriends an older homeless veteran, Barry. KJ struggles with thoughts of suicide after his father passes away."
Bravo!! Wishing you much success with the film and your future. Nick Nolte is an amazing talent. You’re a lucky young man
yea:)
Friday December 16th, 2022
The LaGuardia Parents Association is raffling off HOUSE SEATS to the Broadway show of your choice (choose between MJ, Hamilton, Moulin Rouge, or Funny Girl). The lucky winner will be selected on December 21! Support the great work of the Parents Association and enter to win!
$20 gets you one chance to win: www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=HYT6R5RW3XECC
$100 gets you 6 chances to win: www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=EBMWBT95PBBRL
The lucky winner will be announced on Wednesday, December 21.
Friday December 16th, 2022
Check out TWO alumni voicing characters in "The Bad Guys," a new family friendly film on Netflix - Awkwafina (LaG '06) and Zazie Beetz (LaG '09)!
Watch The Bad Guys | Netflix
After a heist gone wrong, a wily wolf and his infamous crew of animal accomplices agree to become model citizens — or at least try to.
Wednesday December 14th, 2022
Get your tickets to the amazing Semi-Annual Orchestra and Choral Concert Wednesday, December 21 and Thursday, December 22, 2022 at 6:30pm. Tickets are $20 adults/$15 students: www.tix.com/ticket-sales/laguardiahs/699
Senior Orchestra: Joseph Meyers, Conductor
Pieces by Dmitri Shostakovich, Carlos Franzetti, Pyotr Ilyitch Tchaikovsky
Senior Chorus: Jana Ballard, Conductor, Jeanne Cascio, Assistant Director, Dr. Christopher Koelzer, Accompanist
Pieces by Gregorio Allegri, Gabriel Fauré, John Rutter, Eric Whitacre, and Moses Hogan
Please note that adults must show ID and proof of vaccination.
Tuesday December 13th, 2022
Tonight (Dec. 13) at 6pm, catch LaGuardia's Show Choir performing as part of the New York City Opera Holiday Caroling event in Bryant Park. Jeanne Cascio will lead the Show Choir in performing some holiday favorites in front of the tree!
What date? It says tonight Dec 13 in your post but today is Dec 17 🤷♀️
Friday December 9th, 2022
Enjoy a stroll through some of the Semi-Annual Art opening!
Awesome‼️
I am always amazed of the talent of these young kids...just kids- with the soul of an artist.who see the world around them or adjust that world to their singular perspective...Having artists in my family changed my vision and I know these young artists change all those who see their creations
Friday December 9th, 2022
See the lovely artwork of Judy Simon (M&A '57) at Palo Alto's Pacific Art League's 101st Anniversary Exhibition: "SmallMediumLarge." The in-person exhibition is through January 17, 2023, or view the artwork online at: www.pacificartleague.org/101st-anniversary-smallmediumlarge
Friday December 9th, 2022
Happy #FiorelloFriday! Enjoy a bit of today’s wonderful morning lobby concert and a peek at the beautiful art from the Semi-Annual Art Exhibit, which opens today!
Wednesday December 7th, 2022
Come to the amazing Winter 2022 Semi-Annual Art Show on Friday, December 9 - preview 1-2:30 and opening celebration 2:30-7pm!
Must show ID and proof of vaccination. Suggested donation $20 adults/$5 students.
Wednesday December 7th, 2022
Tickets are available one hour before the performances for the All-School Musical “Chicago” performances on Thursday 12/8 at 7pm, Friday 12/9 at 7pm, and Saturday 12/10 at 2pm and 7pm. $30. Tickets are not available online. Get there an hour early, with ID and proof of vaccination.
Directed by LaG '08 alumnus and Drama Faculty, Gasparo Capobianco-DiBlasi, and Conducted by Kevin Blancq. Enjoy the amazing show!
Is it possible to buy tickets today online?
Why the "Teen Edition"? This isn't the Bible Belt, and LaGuardia students are no ordinary teens.
If possible please support this kids this musical is very good and the performance is great! When you see this from the beginning through the end it is outstanding!!💯💃🕺🌹💜🙏🏽
Wednesday November 30th, 2022
Check out this PBS video including four alumni performing in the chorus at the NY Phil Reopening of David Geffen Hall!
Wayne Arthur (LaG '07), Cherisse Williams and Cherissia Williams (LaG '09), and Omar Bowey (LaG '11). The video will stream on PBS until December 2, 2022:
www.pbs.org/wnet/gperf/ny-phil-reopening-of-david-geffen-hall-about/14020/
This concert special led by the New York Philharmonic Music Director Jaap van Zweden inaugurates the newly renovated David Geffen Hall. Recorded October 28, the concert features a performance of “Ode to Joy” as the finale of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony along with a world premiere work by Puerto Rican composer Angélica Negrón celebrating the ritual of gathering around music and art. Under the baton of Music Director Jaap Van Zweden the concert features performances from soloists Joélle Harvey, Kelley O’Connor, Issachah Savage and Davóne Tineschorus for Ode to joy and “You are the Prelude” by Angelica Negron.
Tuesday November 29th, 2022
November 30 is the opening night of LaGuardia's All School Musical "Chicago" (teen edition)! Previews are on November 30 and December 1, and performances continue through December 10. Get your tickets before they're all gone at www.tix.com/ticket-sales/laguardiahs/699
Directed by LaG '08 alumnus and Drama Faculty, Gasparo Capobianco-DiBlasi and Conducted by Kevin Blancq.
Emma Gonzalez
Tuesday November 29th, 2022
Watch this amazing performance on Jimmy Fallon of Lorna Courtney (LaG '16 vocal), star of the new musical And Juliet Broadway!" Lorna was the recipient of numerous Alumni & Friends scholarships and awards that helped hone her craft and led her on her path to BROADWAY! She starred in the LaGuardia all-school musicals and she was an intern in the Alumni & Friends office! Go Lorna!
Brava!!
Saw her and cast in dress. Lorna was incredible. Will be back in January!
Tuesday November 29th, 2022
🎼Shoutout to LaGuardia’s Senior Chorus, who will perform the World Premiere of Eric Whitacre’s 'The Gift of the Magi' at Carnegie Hall on Tuesday, November 29, at 7:00 PM! Jana Ballard, Choral Director.
The Holiday Music of Eric Whitacre | Nov 29, 2022 at 7 PM
www.carnegiehall.org
Join DCINY and singers from around the world for an evening with one of today’s celebrated choral composers, Eric Whitacre. He leads the choir through a program of his popular holiday works, includi...Anybody in the all city orchestra get to play there? I know Joey did an all city Tympani stint with Zubin Mehta at Carnegie….I was good enough on violin for M and A, but not good enough for a Carnegie gig!!!! Wish I was in town Nov 29th!!!! Have a great gig!😀
That's awesome! Congratulations!
Joey who?