Schools
Avondale HS choir selected to perform at Detroit Tree Lighting
Prestigious honor goes to only one high school in the state of Michigan
Avondale High School Concert Choir, under the direction of Mr. Kevin Cornwell, takes a break during practice for their performance at the Detroit Tree Lighting Ceremony.
Within hours of making the announcement on the Avondale School District Facebook page, more than 7,000 people had learned the news that Avondale High School Vocal Music Department is the only high school invited to perform at the Detroit Tree Lighting Ceremony this year.
“What a fantastic honor! Congratulations Mr. Cornwell and the choir!” “Incredible - congrats!” “Way to go Mr. Cornwell and his brilliant students!” “Avondale choir rocks!” “Very cool! Bravo!” The congratulatory posts continued as more community members learned the news.
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The Facebook messages celebrate Mr. Kevin Cornwell who has been the Avondale Vocal Music Director for 24 years, and his legacy of choirs and individual performers who consistently take top district and state honors at Michigan School Vocal Music Association (MSVMA) festivals. The messages are from current families and staff, alumni, district retirees and myriad community members familiar with the reputation of the Avondale Vocal Music Department.
“I’m not surprised by the reaction on Facebook,” said Avondale School District Superintendent Dr. James Schwarz. “The entire community knows what a jewel Mr. Cornwell is and the wonderful work he does with our students.”
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The Detroit Tree Lighting Ceremony draws 40,000 attendees to downtown Detroit each year and marks the start of the four-month “Winter Magic” entertainment series including the official opening of The Rink at Campus Marius Park and the annual Salvation Army Kettle Campaign. This year the celebration includes headline performers Grammy award winner CeCe Winan and Olympic ice dancers Maia and Alex Shibutani.
Cornwell is thrilled to be selected to perform at the event, “this is such an honor,” he said, “something the students will remember for a very long time.”
The event, on November 16th from 5 p.m. – midnight is free magical fun for the entire family.
