Orchestra members from the Central High School District had the unique opportunity to study and play alongside Emmy award-winning composer Mark Wood on Nov. 6.

Wood, who is of the multiplatinum selling Trans-Siberian Orchestra and creator of the revolutionary Viper electric violin, brought his groundbreaking music education program Electrify Your Strings! to the students in a one-day workshop. 
He focused on teaching improvisation, composition, and personal expression on their violins, violas, cellos and basses.

Students from Merrick Avenue and Grand Avenue middle schools, Mepham, Kennedy and Calhoun high schools then performed in a live concert alongside Wood later that same evening at the Brookside building.

“This event marks the first time in our district that all orchestra students in grades 7-12 came together in performance; all while raising money for our Community Cupboard,” said District Director of Fine & Performing Arts Cheryl Fontana. “It is our ‘One Voice, One Message’ initiative at its finest.”

The concert was open to the public and raised more than $1,100 for the district’s food pantry.