A Song and a Cause

By JANELL MALDONADO

Hearing the sweet melodies, soothing voices, and the full resonant sound of a guitar strumming, it was clear that Washingtonville High School has some real talent that is seen by everyone. Seeing the parents proudly watching their children in awe was heartwarming. Seeing the young, eager, aspiring performances brings joy to many people, especially in the music department of Washingtonville.

This past week the Washingtonville music department partnered with the Community Service Club to host their annual “Coffee House” performance night. Coffee house is an outlet that is used for kids to perform and express their musical talents while raising money for a charity.

Karina Santana, a performer at Coffee House recalled, “I enjoy performing so I can showcase what I’ve been working and practicing towards, and knowing I’m there to have fun with my friends in the calm atmosphere.” She also went on to mention that Coffee House is an outlet to support one another and fellow musicians at Washingtonville without being under pressure.

Coffee House is such a loved event every year because it’s not only a place to hone one’s craft but, it’s for a good cause. The Community Service Club at Washingtonville partnered with the music department to raise money for The Country Kids Food Pantry

Sophie DeCarvahlo, the president of The Community Service Club stated, “The Community Service Club has helped The Country Kids Food Pantry for many years, helping to gather students to volunteer at the twice monthly distribution days and collect both monetary and physical food donations. This year's coffee house event was able to raise a total of $260 dollars which the Country Kids Food Pantry is able to use to provide a total of 1040 meals to the families of Washingtonville." Statistics like this make performers want to keep performing because they are doing what they love while still raising money for The Country Kids Food Pantry.

Watching the students performing gave audience members a sense of pride being a part of the music department at Washingtonville. There are so many talented singers and guitarists ranging from all grades. It was very pleasantly surprising with how many young kids there are with a passion for music. Events like this give many people hope for the future of music.