The “Mustang Band” and “Vernon Vocals” recently performed at Disney Springs in Florida.
Director of Visual and Performing Arts Matthew Neylon, John Grove, MS/US Band Director, Krista Parker, Upper School Dean of Students, Vernon Vocals singer/Latin teacher Sam Baroody, and Art teacher Mariana Depetris escorted the Upper School band and choral performers to the most magical place on earth to perform for park guests.
Both musical groups were invited by Disney Performing Arts to play, based on an audition video Mr. Neylon and Mr. Grove produced and submitted.
Mr. Neylon shares, “Mr. Grove coordinated the out-of-state performance experience, which has become an annual tradition for Upper School students to gain real-world experience, understand what it means to be a part of the Disney “Cast” of employees for the day, and collaborate as an ensemble in a new venue for an unknown audience.”
Once onsite, the concert band performed music from Disney movie soundtracks, including Star Wars, E.T., and Pirates of the Caribbean, just to name a few.
Ten members of Vernon Vocals performed music by Fun, Matchbox 20, Simon & Garfunkel, Pentatonix, and sang a medley of Disney favorites. 
Each group entertained crowds at the park for 30 minutes, and were awarded golden Mickey trophies, which are now on display in the Overlook.
Students reflect on the experience:
“It was great in every aspect.”
“It was a bunch of fun.”
“It was magical.”
“I enjoyed playing for an audience and hanging out with my friends.”
