High School singers raise funds for Disney World event

WARWICK-They're halfway to Disney World — well almost. Earlier this year, the Warwick Valley High School Meistersingers, an award winning group of outstanding "a cappella" singers, were invited to the Disney Honors 2005 festival. The prestigious event showcases the nation's premier high school choral ensembles, concert bands and orchestras. "They were one of the 14 top-ranked choral groups selected from all those in the country who competed for this honor," said Lois Heller. Under her direction, the Meistersingers have received several superior and outstanding ratings at state events. Last May, they were nominated by the New York Music Educators Association to apply to the Disney festival. And, based on the excellence of their taped submission, the Disney Honors Panel selected the group to compete in the upcoming festival scheduled for April 20 - 24, 2005. To pay for the costs of transportation and attendance at the festival, however, the Meistersingers have had to raise money. They've been appearing at fundraising events such as Applefest. And, during this holiday season, for example, they sang traditional and modern Christmas songs at Warwick's ShopRite super market. Grateful shoppers and employees showed their appreciation by leaving donations. "The cost of this trip," explained Heller, "is $26,000." Shortly before Christmas, the Meistersingers were still short of this goal by $15,000. Anyone wishing to help this hard working group of talented high school students can contact WVHS Meistersingers Vocal Director Lois Heller at Box 595, Warwick, NY 10990 or call 987-3050 x2086. You can also send an e-mail to: lheller@wvcsd.org.