GOA student musicians practice in small groups with music teacher Richard Perini.
WEST ORANGE, NJ — As part of the UJA Benefit Concert outreach project, Golda Och Academy student musicians have been invited to join members of the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra during a special performance on Wednesday, Nov. 16, at 7 p.m. at Golda Och Academy’s Eric F. Ross Upper School Campus.
Under the direction of GOA music teacher Richard Perini, Golda Och Academy instrumental music students in grades five through 11 are practicing to play “Hatikvah,” Israel’s national anthem, with the orchestra. On the day of the performance, GOA musicians will have the incredible opportunity to learn from NJSO professionals as they practice alongside one another and then perform together during the concert.
“Bringing the NJSO to GOA is an amazing opportunity for our band students to learn and perform with working professionals in the field,” Jordan Herskowitz, arts department chair at GOA, said in a pres release. “This event will elevate the arts at GOA as we continue to find new and innovative ways to enhance our program.”
Golda Och Academy’s instrumental music program begins in third grade, where students can choose to play the trumpet, trombone, French horn, baritone horn, clarinet, flute, saxophone or percussion instruments. Students in their second year of the music program can join the Lower School band. Once at the Upper School, instrument lessons are also offered as well as the band.
GOA junior Shachar Kessler, student coordinator for “An Evening with the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra at GOA,” is marking his eighth year with the school band. “It is a huge honor to play with the NJSO,” he said. “While my experience in the school band has helped me grow as a musician, playing with a professional orchestra will be an eye-opening experience. I am eager to see the work professional musicians do and learn from them.”
The concert, which is open to the public, begins at 7 p.m., and doors will open at 6:30 p.m., at the Eric F. Ross Upper School Campus, 1418 Pleasant Valley Way in West Orange. Space is limited; RSVP for the event at www.goldaochacademy.org/symphony.
Photos Courtesy of GOA
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