Marist Singers Present Concert For The Anderson Center For Autism

From Feb. 9 to 10 in the Nelly Goletti Theatre, the Marist Singers performed a medley of love songs for their annual Love In The Afternoon showcase.

Every year, the Marist Singers choose a charity to donate proceeds from ticket sales and raffles to. This year, they chose the Anderson Center for Autism, a residential school for children with autism, located in Poughkeepsie.

“The Anderson Center for Autism is an incredible cause that is close to all of our hearts,” said Christine Bjorkman ‘21.“It helps countless individuals from our community and provides them with a place to call home”

A cappella group The Lovely Sirens performing at this year’s Love in the Afternoon benefit concert. Image courtesy of Emily Jones, ‘19

“One of the great things about Love in The Afternoon is that the students in the music program get to choose the organization that will be benefited from the concert,” said Michael Napolitano, Assistant Director of the Music Department. “This is their way of sharing their gift with the community, in a different way than any other program does. It is very rewarding to oversee much more than just a concert.”

While community service is a big part of the event, it is also a chance to hear the Marist Singers’ latest work. The songs being performed include “Somebody to Love” by Queen, “Shallow” from the film A Star is Born, “I’m Amazed” by Paul McCartney, and many more.

“Love in the Afternoon has been amazing this year,” said Anna Wilson, secretary for the Marist Singers. “We are performing such beautiful music, all for a cause that does so much for so many around the Hudson Valley.”

Justin Camero and Raquelle Rocco perform "Shallow” from film “A Star is Born”. Image courtesy of Emily Jones, ‘19

All songs are chosen by students and practiced mostly on their own time.  

“When choosing a song for the show, most of the time you choose a song that is important to you, and that sends a good message,” said Crew Director Maxwell O’Handley. “You want to make your voice heard.”

Throughout the course of their three shows, the Marist Singers raised $4,500 for the Anderson Center for Autism.

“We have been practicing so hard” said Adriana Duffy ‘21, “We practice at least two days a week, if not more, and while it might be stressful, we enjoy every minute of it.”