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Schools

What a Wonderful World, Oakdale Spring Concert a Hit

Under the guidance of Dedham School of Music Executive Director, Gabriella Sana, and some very patient instructors, the fifth grade band opened the show with five rousing numbers.

 

As Oakdale Elementary School Principal, Holli Armstrong, walked to the center of the gymnasium floor, a hush fell over the room. The school's 300 plus students in grades 1-5, had just completed their annual spring concert. The room, full of parents, relatives, friends and neighbors, had just witnessed an hour long performance and was waiting as each class took their place, on and in front of the stage.

For the past six months, the students in each grade have practiced very hard together. Under the guidance of Dedham School of Music Executive Director, Gabriella Sana, and some very patient instructors, the fifth grade band opened the show with five rousing numbers. Each member of the school band is a first year music student.

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The woodwinds were followed by a fabulous performance featuring the Oakdale Strings. Next up, was a well coreographed 5-song medley by the Oakdale Glee Club. Under the direction of Principal Armstrong, these girls and boys dazzled the crowd.

The audience was then treated to 2/3 songs by the students in each grade. Seated at his piano, Oakdale Music Teacher, Bryan Bigelow, has spent the past few years teaching hundreds of Dedham children how to sing. His dedication and hard work certainly paid off, as the show went off without a hitch.

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The audience was treated to a variety of music throughout the concert. The graduating fifth grade class had the whole room singing along to local favorite, Sweet Caroline.

Then at last, the highlight of this year's show. As the music began and Principal Armstrong took to the floor, 300 plus students came together to sing Louis Armstrong's hit “What a Wonderful World.” First released in 1967, this song is recognized around the world, for it's hopeful, optimistic tone with regard to the future.

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