Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School has three student-musicians selected to the 2023 Suffolk County Music Educators’ Association’s vocal jazz ensemble. This is a first for the school district. “This is such a tremendous opportunity for these students and our growing program,” said choral teacher and vocal jazz director Katherine Butera (pictured far right). Ms. Butera introduced the vocal jazz group at the high school last year and is excited to see the potential for this year. Shawn Smaldon (right) and Daniel Kister (left) were selected to the group, and Valery Cedeno (center) was chosen as an alternate. The concert is scheduled for Nov. 4 at East Islip High School. Students are pictured with Copiague School District’s director of fine arts Jennifer Ross-Troise (far left).

Date Added: 9/18/2023