Warren Students Sing at Radio City Music Hall
Warren Township Schools
They say it’s the most wonderful time of year, and that couldn’t be more true for fifty-four seventh and eighth-grade students from Warren Township, NJ, and their Vocal Teacher, Mrs. Amy Jensen. The group recently experienced a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity when they sang the opening number at the legendary Rockette’s Christmas Spectacular Show at Radio City Music Hall in New York City on opening day.
Jensen and her choral students traveled to NYC on Friday, November 18, 2022, with six chaperones and over one hundred adoring fans from the Warren community.
The group was ushered into the grand foyer, currently furnished in lavish holiday decor, and were whisked to a private area behind velvet walls to begin their preshow rehearsal.
As part of the ‘Sounds of Christmas’ feature at Radio City, the Warren Middle School (WMS) students would be performing a three-minute a cappella version of This is Winter by Amy Bernon in front of a large audience. The event was coordinated by Jensen and E2 teacher Dr. Susan Cooper.
While in rehearsal, Jensen thanked her students for their hard work leading up to the special day. She assured the children that feeling a bit nervous was normal but hoped they all recognized the significance of this opportunity and encouraged them to enjoy the moment.
Minutes before the students were to take the stage, they were led into the main theater and coached on last-minute details by the Stage Manager. The students eagerly stood in line with big smiles and anticipation.
Within moments, the students were introduced and welcomed to the stage. Just like in their practice sessions, they walked confidently on stage and took their places. Jensen signaled for their attention and they began to sing in perfect harmony. Their voices filled the theater with holiday spirit.
At the conclusion of their performance, the students and Jensen received an enthusiastic standing ovation from the crowd before taking their seats to enjoy the show.
The entire school community is extremely proud of Jensen and her chorus. According to Dr. Matthew Mingle, Superintendent of Schools, the chorus will perform at the December 19, 2022, Board of Education Meeting.
Jensen looks forward to showcasing her students’ talent at future events. “The WMS 7th & 8th-grade Chorus was honored to perform at Radio City Music Hall before the first Rockettes Christmas Spectacular performance of the year! The students worked very hard to learn to sing a modified a cappella version of This is Winter, a song we plan to sing at our winter concert. I am very proud of my students!”
Photos by Warren Township Schools
