The harmonious tones of the Chelsea High School Cantare and the energetic and refined sound of the Chelsea High School Jazz Band filled the Massachusetts State House on Wednesday, April 15, when the two student groups representing Chelsea Public Schools performed in the Senate Reading Room.
These CHS students were invited to the State House last week by State Senator Sal DiDomenico to perform a special setlist. They gathered to play the songs that were part of their Disney World performance in March, signifying an opportunity to showcase their talents in front of state dignitaries and representatives.
The performance occurred in the Senate Reading Room. Senator DiDomenico addressed the students and crowd in attendance, sharing that he believed this was the first-ever band to perform in the reading room itself. As part of the gathering, Senator DiDomenico presented the students with an Official Citation from the Massachusetts State Senate that recognizes the Jazz Band and Cantare for, “Your selection among a competitive group of high schools around the country to perform at Disney, the most magical place on Earth.”
“I am so proud of our students in Jazz Band and Cantare for continuing to showcase their immense talents and making us so proud in Chelsea. From Disney World to the State House, they are remarkable representatives of our schools” said CPS Superintendent Dr. Almi G. Abeyta. “I especially want to thank Senator Sal DiDomenico for welcoming our students to the State House, organizing the visit for them, and his continuous support of our music programs and entire school district.”
“It was my privilege to welcome students in the Chelsea High School Jazz Band and Cantare in the State House to play their Disney World performance,” said Senator DiDomenico. “I am always blown away by the talent and professionalism of these students and staff, and I am so glad I can support them with funding in the state budget.”
The students traveled to Disney World to perform in March as part of the Disney Imagination Campus program. Chelsea High School was selected through a competitive audition process and learned that they were selected to perform this past winter. The trip also included educational workshops for the students as part of the Imagination Campus programming.
Recently, Senator DiDomenico secured funding to support future trips and travel for the CHS music programs, ensuring they will continue to represent Chelsea and perform on the national stage.