Business & Tech
Student Musicians Showcase Their Talents
Music Academy of Garden City holds its third annual recital.
This year marked the Music Academy of Garden City's third annual student recitals. To accommodate the exceeding amount of talent, the first of two groups was showcased at noon at Villa Umberto Catering in Elmont.
More than 24 students got to show off their polished musical talents. Some played piano and drums, while others played violin and sang vocal arrangements. The talent levels span a wide range of skill from as little as three months, up to five years under the instruction of John and Peter Coco and their faculty.
"I can't believe I see these little kids play such complex music with the nuance that some professionals never achieve," said Academy co-owner and instructor John Coco.
Find out what's happening in Garden Cityfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Two students were honored for their commitment to the performing arts. Regan Marooney was selected at the recipient of the Academy's Most Improved Musician of the Year.
John Coco said of Marooney: "She plays well beyond her years."
Find out what's happening in Garden Cityfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The Academy's second honor, the Multi-Instrumentalist of the Year, went to Nic Mrakovcic for his comprehensive musical talents. Mrakovcic plays three instruments, the upright bass, the electric bass and the piano.
Councilman Edward Ambrosino made a special appearance to enjoy some of the recitals and said, "To the Coco brothers and their whole family, God bless them for bringing music back to our community."
John and Peter Coco thanked the councilman for his initial interest in helping their business succeed and his continued support of their programming.
"Three students from last year all went to college to major in music, so that's really a testament," said Peter Coco. "John, myself and all of the staff, we are so proud of the work that these kids have done this year; they have really stepped it up and you'll hear it with your kids."
The Music Academy of Garden City continues to expand its enrollment. There is no age limit on the students at the Academy; this year some are as young as six years old. The Academy is accepting enrollment for the summer and fall semesters and has several upcoming events like "Battle of the Bands" and a guitar-making workshop. Visit their shop at 32 Nassau Boulevard or web site for more information.
