Here’s to the FTC Music Division Directors!

It was quite a week here @ FTC. The esteemed Music Division presented a series of wonderful and eclectic concerts for six straight nights! That’s just one of the perks of attending a regionally- accredited college known for being a “music school”!

But, let’s delve in a little more to examine what really went on here . . . whoever says there’s not much to do at a small college in Long Island during the winter needs to check out the FTC Performing Arts Center for a sampling of the musical vibe that is all too well and alive in Dix Hills.

First up, was the FTC Holiday Concert. Professor Karahalis directed this instrumental occasion. Always a showman (and deservingly so!), talented students perform in grand display while welcoming the holiday season with selected traditional musical pieces to delight all.

Next up, was the Jazz Ensemble directed by Greg Bobulinski (*photo not available) and, then, the Winter Concert, including the FTC Choir, Chamber Orchestra and Chamber Singers. Directed by Professor Friese (*photo not available) , Pierce and Pagano, the FTC community heard amazing students hone they craft in small ensembles while listening to classic and contemporary jazz music. Classical music played a significant role in this week’s productions. The Choir and the Chamber Singers reminded us of the Latin roots of some holiday songs and harmonized eloquently as the audience musically embraced the season.

The Evening of Jazz under the tutelage of Professors Ballin, Briody, and Silverberg presented a wonderful variety of jazz quintets, student spotlights and the “American Songbook” ensemble as well as the Jazz Orchestra. Quite an array of musical talent was produced on campus for all to enjoy!

The week’s presentations were still getting warmed up by the time Thursday night rolled around. That’s when Professor Rogine, once again, amazed the FTC Performing Arts Center with The Guitar Extravaganza. The details and meticulousness of the evening, from the singular strumming of notes to the line item report of how classic guitarists have impacted the study of this incredible instrument right here in Dix Hills, was extraordinary.

Finally, this spectacular musical week was drawn to a close by the A Cappella Ensemble and Vocal Jazz groups directed, respectively, by Professors Silverberg and Gleason. As they say, last is certainly not least, and these vocal groups shared their musicianship and holiday spirit with the FTC community in grand style. Even the Centereach H. S. Women’s Choir was invited to present!

So, this completes the royal shout out to the FTC Music Division Directors and their students! Congratulations on a terrific semester and great concerts!

And, of course, much appreciation for all you do here to make FTC a vibrant and musical campus . . .Rock on! Lol Well, whatever style of music you enjoy whether it is jazz, classical, contemporary, singer-songwriter, etc. FTC is a place to learn and enjoy!