5th Grade Performs at Pennsylvania State Capitol

The 5th grade travelled to Harrisburg in March to perform in the grand rotunda of the Pennsylvania State Capitol.

The student band, orchestra, and chorus performed.

"This trip was a wonderful opportunity for our students to take their talents 'on the road' and to share them with others outside of our community," shared Lower School Choir Director Janet Albrycht, Hon. The chorus sang Cross the Wide Missouri and Sansa Kroma. "I was delighted to see how our students stepped up and took on their share of responsibility and helped others as well. They excelled musically – filling a new, LARGE space with their glorious sounds!"

Another highlight of the trip was the band's premier performance of Elegy and Allegro. The original composition was written for the 5th grade band by world-renowned composer Dr. Andrew Shanefield. "We wanted to provide students with the opportunity to work with a master teacher," said Lower School Band Director Deborah Newnham, Hon. Newnham said it was important that "the composition represent Episcopal Academy's spirit." Dr. Shanefield worked with students on the customized piece throughout the fall and winter.

The orchestra, led by Lower School Orchestra Director Jennifer Lee, performed Sunrise and Into the Sky!

"What a fantastic experience for our children that will last a lifetime," said Head of Lower School Dr. Terry Malone. "As folks passed by the grand staircase, they couldn't believe that such young students could play such beautiful music. The orchestra, the band and the chorus lit up the space. It was a proud moment for our Lower School and EA!"

While in Harrisburg, students also toured the Capitol building and saw the inside of the House and Senate Chambers and the State Supreme Court.

The performance was a part of Music Advocacy Day, which is organized by the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association.