This year marked another remarkable chapter in the long and proud legacy of the Bishop Ryan Catholic Secondary School music program. With nearly three decades of excellence, the Bishop Ryan Xpression Vocal Ensemble and Celtic Fusion Concert Band continued their tradition of success at the WorldStrides Heritage Music Festival, held this year in the vibrant city of New York.
From April 24 to 27, 108 students traveled alongside their musical directors Chad Pilon and Sara Pacheco, along with dedicated chaperones, to participate in the prestigious event.
“The Bishop Ryan Xpression Vocal Ensemble and Celtic Fusion Concert Band has a long a successful history of attending the WorldStrides Heritage Music Festival, with an almost 30-year history of musical excellence in various destinations including Chicago, New York City, Boston, Washington, Myrtle Beach, and Nashville, Tennessee,” said Pilon.
Delivering an outstanding performance, the BR Xpression Vocal Ensemble was awarded a Gold Award for excellence in vocal music. The Celtic Fusion Concert Band also impressed, earning a Silver Rating for their high-quality performance.
“The icing on the cake, however, was when Bishop Ryan was selected as the recipient of the Spirit Award - an award that is only given to one school at each festival, and who's recipient is the school which best exemplifies overall school spirit and positive attitude.”
Individual recognition was also given to Grade 11 student Ife Alake, who received a Maestro Award for her stunning solo performance of “Killing Me Softly.”
Beyond the awards and recognition, students had the opportunity to connect with one another, explore one of the world’s most iconic cities, and create lifelong memories through the shared joy of performance.
