The Massapequa School District had its first evening of musical recognition to honor participants in the highly prestigious Long Island String Festival and the All-County Music Festival for 1900-2000 at the Baldwin Auditorium, on Tuesday, March 21, at 8 p.m.

Orchestra Director Mr. Alan Kunins conducted the high school Symphony Orchestra in their performance of Tschaikovsky's classical Waltz composition. The smooth opening number concocted images of couples rotating and progressing with ease around the ballroom floor dancing and flowing to the melodious music.

Director of Fine Arts, Anne Marie Ginsberg, welcomed the students and their families. She expounded on the benefits the arts have in helping students grow into unique individuals. Mrs. Ginsberg explained that the arts are powerful tools of communication, valued for their interdisciplinary potential, and positive effect in involving the children to be active participants in their world rather than mere observers. She spelled out the advantages that can be obtained that included sharing of common bond with students from different cultures, learning self-discipline, enhanced self-esteem, development of critical thinking skills, experiencing the joy and pride of successes, as well as developing the ability to handle frustrations and failures in the pursuit of their goals. Anne Marie Ginsberg emphasized the importance of classroom music instructions be it orchestra, choral or band in helping the students realize their goals and becoming well-rounded individuals. She then introduced Superintendent of Schools Dr. Lawrence Pereira.

Dr. Pereira acknowledged the work of Alan Kunins. He declared that Mr. Kunins truly exemplifies the dedication and commitment that is desperately needed in public schools today. Dr. Pereira quickly added that he has the privilege of knowing 30 outstanding music educators in the school district. He articulated that these talented groups of individuals practice what they preach as they actively perform in orchestra, jazz groups, theaters, or hold positions in music organizations. Dr. Pereira vocalized his appreciation for the students' hard work and dedication to their music. He specifically mentioned high school student Chris Vanison for his exemplary achievement in composing a musical piece that premiered at the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra of New York and performed by the Nassau Pops Symphony Orchestra. He thanked the students for representing Massapequa in the music festivals, and for their commitment to their music. Dr. Pereira recounted his experience as a young student learning to play the saxophone and his teacher's heroic effort in trying to teach him. He expressed regret at not continuing on with playing the saxophone. He wisely advised the young musicians to keep on practicing, stay with their instruments, and to do the best they can.

Dr. Lawrence Pereira and Anne Marie Ginsberg presented each participant with a Certificate of Merit. Dr. Pereira thanked the parents for their show of support and commitment toward their children. The Symphony Orchestra's performance of "Hoe Down" from Copland's Rodeo brought visions of cowboys astride galloping horses. It capped a rewarding night for all.