St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School Excels at Music in the Parks Festival

Press Release

For Immediate Release:

June 2, 2015

WEST ISLIP, NY - The St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School Performing Arts Department brought more than 160 members to compete against more than 25 other ensembles in the Music in the Parks Festival at Hershey Park in Pennsylvania. Each ensemble worked throughout the year to prepare a number of pieces that they performed in front of seasoned judges on May 15th. As the judges read their evaluations it became clear that this would be a banner day for SJB. The day included five first place finishes and four ratings of superior, the highest rating. The specific results are listed below:

Band - First place for jazz bands - Superior rating
Jazz Band - Best overall Jazz Band
Jazz Band - Best featured soloist - John Piazza, Drums
Wind Ensemble - Third place for concert bands – Excellent rating
Orchestra - First place for string orchestras - Superior rating
Percussion Ensemble – First place for percussion ensembles – Good rating
Bel Canto Chorale – First place for women’s chorus – Superior Rating
Himphonix - First place for men’s choir – Superior Rating

Mr. Christopher Donohue, Chairman of the Performing Arts department, proudly called the results “a testament to the tremendous dedication, talent, and hard work of our students and teachers” that “confirms the level of skill an accomplishment that [the teachers] see in classes every day.” After a highly successful competition, SJB students spent the next day enjoying the rides and attractions at Hershey Park. Director of Choirs Mr. Jared Berry stated, “It was a wonderful experience for the students. They worked so diligently and were then able to unwind and have fun together.”

To finish their week each ensemble performed to a packed Dunne Auditorium with an eager audience for the Spring Instrumental and Vocal Concerts. Donohue concluded, “It’s really been a banner year. To have so many All-State and All-County award recipients, carry the day at this competition, and play to a full auditorium is a true testament to the quality and growth of our program.”

Photo Caption from left to right: Mr. Jared Berry, Director of Choirs, Mr. Daniel Dellamonica, Band Director, Ms. Heather Stein, Director of Percussion Ensemble and Mr. Christopher Donohue, Performing Arts Chairperson

About St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School

About St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School: 1,700 students attend St. John the Baptist DHS, a college preparatory Catholic High School located on the south shore in West Islip. As part of the Diocese of Rockville Centre, St. John’s offers a value-centered education that recognizes the unique talents and abilities of each child, while fostering a school environment that challenges students to reach their true potential. Open since 1966, St. John’s offers a rigorous curriculum and extensive activity and athletic programs. Students have the opportunity to take numerous Advanced Placement classes and 99% of St. John’s graduates continue on to higher education. For Mission Statement and additional information: http://www.stjohnthebaptistdhs.net