At a time when public schools, public school teachers, and other public institutions are under constant assault by the ever more fascistic right, it is worth reminding ourselves of concrete examples of what is really good about supporting public institutions. So, introduce yourself to a group of very likeable and talented kids from Staten Island NY
Meet the PS22 Chorus from Public School 22 in Staten Island, NY.
This talented group of kids have become a Youtube sensation and have recently performed at the Academy Awards. I just came upon them while doing some video searches. Here is their website.
And here are some examples of what they do.
And this
And since I love the Velvet Underground, I have to add this
They have performed on a number of stages, some quite famous, such as Lincoln Center
and have performed with older musicians, who might be now a bit better known, such as the Bangles
As their music teacher, Gregg Breinberg, describes these kids, one is reminded of the challenges they face growing up and what having this music program means to them.
“There’s a great feeling in seeing these kids — some of whom have been abused, neglected, who have nothing to look forward to when they get home — and knowing that when they come in to my class to sing, you can just see the depth of their emotional experience come through.”
I am hoping, that if you are viewing these clips that they are putting a smile on your face as they are on mine. And I hope that they serve as a reminder of a a lot of what is good, and yet under assault, by the right, particularly the attempts by public schools to actually educate and inspire kids to reach high and to find their passion. These kids clearly have. They are an inspiration to me. I think that their musical interpretations of these songs are wonderful and heartfelt, and speak to the kinds of great kids these kids seem to me. My hat's also off to all their teachers.