For years, Verona’s public schools have had “one school, one book” initiatives in which students, teachers and families have all been on the same page for reading. But until Wednesday night, all of Verona’s student musicians–from elementary school through VHS–had never gotten together to all play from the same score.
The occasion was Max Morden’s final school concert. After 35 years of guiding students from their first shaky notes to their jazz band improvisations, Morden has decided to put a coda on his teaching career. So he invited 225 student musicians to the floor of the new gym at Verona High School where, in front of bleachers packed with parents, former students and music fans from the community they sent him off in grand style. Among the pieces played: “What to Do,” which Morden composed specifically for the occasion.
Thanks for the memories Max–and the music.
(Photos: Maryellen McHugh)
