By: Richard L. Smith
The annual "Music in the Parks" festival at Six Flags Great Adventure proved to be a meaningful event for students from East Orange Cicely L. Tyson Community School of Performing and Fine Arts on Friday, May 31, 2024.
Monmouth County officials told RLS Media that Jackson Liberty High School hosted the festival this year. The festival celebrates school bands, choirs, and orchestras from across the state.
According to Six Flags officials, the festival not only provided a fun and educational end-of-the-year experience for students but also offered valuable feedback from highly respected conductors and directors.
Ensembles performed on stage for adjudication and then enjoyed a day at the park, culminating in an awards ceremony at Movie-time Arena.
The Cicely Tyson Symphonic Band and Jazz Band were standout performers this year, winning trophies for the best jazz-performing ensemble.
Student Lameel Cummings Jr., the lead alto saxophonist, received a gold medal for best solos in "Birdland" by Joseph Zuwinal and "Moanin'" by Bobby Timmons.
The symphonic band performed "Sevens" by Samuel Hazo and "English Folksong Suite" by Ralph Vaughan Williams, earning a superior rating for their overall performance.
“These bands are some of the best I have had during my 30-year career,” said the band's director.
“Our trumpet soloists Nathaniel Labissiere and Ryan English led the way for our brass section, and oboist A’iyanna Mixon delivered a stellar performance in the English Folksong Suite.” -Cicely L. Tyson Community School of Performing and Fine Arts
Six Flags officials told RLS Media that the festival, celebrating its 40th anniversary, attracted ensembles from all over the United States and Canada.
“It provided an opportunity for students to showcase their talent on a national stage, boosting the visibility of their music programs and motivating students to strive for excellence.”
With a team of experienced teachers offering constructive feedback, the festival ensures musical growth continues through the end of the year, encouraging students to remain engaged and passionate about their craft.
The students at Cicely Tyson School of Performing and Fine Arts have made their East Orange community proud, showcasing their hard work, talent, and dedication at this “rollercoaster-fun” and musical educational event in NJ. 