Saltzman East Memorial wrapped up the district's winter concert season on a high note last night! It was a magical evening featuring a selection of music that truly captured the sounds of the season.

A round of applause for our amazing ensembles and their directors:

• Junior Chorus: Dir. Abigail Coacci 
• Senior Orchestra: Dir. Kelly Policastro
• Senior Band: Dir. Kieran Fiorentino
• Senior Chorus: Dir. Irene Smykowski

Have a great weekend, everyone. We are in the home stretch, only two more school days until holiday recess!

What’s this? There’s magic in the air at Farmingdale High School. The 2025 Extravaganza surprised everyone with a very special guest from Halloween Town.

Superintendent Paul Defendini stepped into the role of Jack Skellington, joining the Mixed Chorus, Treble Chorus, Wind Ensemble, and special guests Jed Herman, Carla Stillwell, Greg Warnokowski, Kirk Mason, David Abrams, Jamie Capasso, Elena Scarano, and Avery DeMasi, to bring the wonder of The Nightmare Before Christmas to life.

Just as Jack discovered the joy of a new world, we found magic in bringing our administration and students together on one stage. Sharing this beloved tradition together is what the spirit of the season and #dalerpride is all about!

Farmingdale High School transformed into a winter wonderland of sound on December 18, for their second winter concert of the season. Students, staff, and families gathered to celebrate the holidays with spectacular performances by the Treble Chorus, Mixed Chorus, and Wind Ensemble.

Talented student-musicians showcased their hard work under the guidance of the music department's leadership. The evening featured the Treble Chorus directed by Mr. Joseph Franzino, the Mixed Chorus led by Ms. Jessica Mischke, and the Wind Ensemble conducted by Mr. Matthew DeMasi.

An energetic highlight of the night was the performance of the "Hallelujah Chorus." This piece is a cherished tradition within the district, as it invites alumni to return to the stage and raise their voices alongside current students.

We caught a sneak peek of our Northside musicians as they prepared to take center stage for their Winter Concert on December 17. These behind-the-scenes shots show just how much hard work and harmony went into making the evening a major success.

Northside Performers included:

• Jazz and Senior Band directed by Dr. Katie Duke
• Senior Orchestra directed by Mrs. Kelly Policastro
• Senior Chorus directed by Mrs. Deanna Cupolo

The Junior Chorus really stole the show with "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch." This number was directed by Ms. Nicole Nappi and featured a very special green guest.

Farmingdale High School hosted the first of two evening concerts last night, December 16. The audience enjoyed beautiful selections from the string and symphony orchestras, led by Ms. Thérèse Mannino, and the symphonic band under the direction of Mr. David Abrams.

The district’s winter concert series serves as a testament to the dedication of our students and the high caliber of our music program. We look forward to seeing everyone at the high school’s next performance on December 18!