Students and Alumni Perform A Cappella Medley

Excitement was in the air Wednesday night as the newly formed a cappella group After Hours waited to perform at . Rain threatened the gathering of residents who were there for the summer's mid-week barbeque and musical entertainment.

The clouds lifted, as Operations Director Maureen Stevens promised they would. After Hours, a singing group that came together under the direction of artistic director Allison Kane took their places in the park's gazebo for their first public appearance.   

"For this engagement we couldn't count on our school-based group Noteorious due to the work schedules and vacation times of its members," explained Kane. "We regrouped with those available and passionate about making music. Even though a cappella singing was new to some all of these students here tonight have been involved in the music and theatre program at the high school. We were delighted to find graduates interested in joining the new venture."

The nuanced mix of voices made up of high school and college talents  found their audience as park-goers of every age listened to the range of voices that was their own musical accompaniment.

Through listening to each other and blending their voices they made a cohesive sound and a statement about their own talent and dedication.

Sophomore Kristin Diamantides soloed as the group backed her up in their rendition of "Fix You" by Cold Play. Liam Trowell class of 2010 was the soloist in "Under Pressure" by Queen. The group wrote and performed their own medley, "Maroon 5."

For their part all the members of the group felt rewarded for their effort.

"When it rained the professional singers here offered us their bus to rehearse in," said junior Janelle Yull. "That was unexpected. Crazy but nice!"

"And it was so good to be performing together for North Reading," said alumna Amelia Zani class of 2010.

Zani's twin sister Kiara is also part of the a cappella group.

"We never did a cappella before," said Kiara Zani. "We were in the high school chorus and sing for our college corale. This was different."

"It shows you how magnificient the community of North Reading is," said their mom Brenda Zani. "The kids here love and are loyal to each other."  

That perspective was confirmed by their director.

"Sometimes the group did extra rehearsing at each others' homes," said Kane. "They'd eat and jam and get it done in a lighthearted way. They love what they do and it comes across."