Trumbull High School choir students are once again asking for support this fall during their annual phone-a-thon. Students are raising money to support expanded choir activities and will be calling through Oct. 18. All contributions are tax-deductible and 100% of the money benefits the choirs.
The Long Hill Administration Building is the center of activity, with every choir student spending at least a few hours making calls. The phone-a-thon is a tradition with the choirs having held the fund raiser for more than 20 years and it continues to be the major source of funds for their activities.
Donations help fund performance opportunities, including state music festivals and competitions, in addition to vocal workshops. Donations also bolster a scholarship fund and make the purchase and upkeep of concert attire for hundreds of students possible.
Every other year the choir takes a national or international trip in the spring, where students both perform and tour. Last year, the choir visited New Orleans, This year donations will help to offset the costs of future trips, making them more affordable for all students.
The Concert Choir has been asked to perform with the Bridgeport Symphony, performed at Avery Fisher Hall in Lincoln Center and has made several appearances at Carnegie Hall over the years. These are once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for students.
Choir Director Anne Tornillo, who was recognized as Teacher of the Year in 2015, instructs over 300 students in five ensembles: the Freshman Choir, the Concert Choir, the Chamber Singers, the Women’s Ensemble and the Men’s Ensemble. The Trumbull choirs hold annual winter and spring concerts that are open to the public.
For more information about the choirs, visit the student-created website, Friends of the Trumbull High School Choirs Inc., at fothsci.org.