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Health & Fitness

Dearborn High School Vocal Ensemble Performs at AAUW-Dearborn Holiday Luncheon

Earlier this month AAUW-Dearborn celebrated the holidays with a luncheon at the Dearborn Country Club.  Members brought items to sell at the Mistletoe Mart, an end of year fundraiser for the Legal Advocacy Fund.  AAUW- Dearborn ranks 38th among all national AAUW branches in donations to this fund.  It proves that even in a weak economy our community understands the importance of giving and supporting important causes. 

After a delicious meal, members enjoyed a holiday performance by Dearborn High School Vocal Ensemble under the direction of Carmelle Atkins.  Dearborn will be on the Divine stage June 2014 when the choir ensemble performs at the Vatican.  They were invited to join other choirs from around the world at a Mass with Pope Francis.  This wonderful experience became possible after they received a superior rating this summer through the Michigan School Vocal Music Association.

Astabraq Alajjam, one of the Presidents of the Dearborn High School Choir, shared how difficult it is to fit Choir into their schedules with all the other academic demands high school requires.  For this reason, these exceptional students are dedicated to the value of music in their education.  Astabraq relates the excitement she feels at the opportunity of performing at the Vatican with other students in the choir.  They are a diverse group; sopranos and altos, baritones and tenors, students of all colors and faiths.  It is a wonderful statement for our city of how music can narrow the differences among us.

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Carmelle Atkins is passionate about how important a role music and art play in education.  It was clear while listening to this group of young people that her leadership sparks something special.   The Vocal Choir will be performing December 19th at 7:30 at Dearborn High School.  Tickets can be purchased at the door for $5.  But, don't hesitate to support this wonderful group with a larger donation towards their trip to Italy.  Tis the season, after all, and what a terrific way to share a part of Dearborn with the world.  If you do miss this performance, the Vocal Ensemble will be having another fundraiser concert, Bon Voyage, in 2014.

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