Winter Coffee House Spotlights Upper School Performers

The setting may have been informal and casual, but the performances at this year’s Winter Coffee House were as professional as they come. Despite bitter cold temperatures outside, family and friends gathered in the warmth and intimate coffee house setting of The Commons Black Box Theater to enjoy the musical talents of almost 20 Ranney Upper School students who provided an evening of delightful entertainment.  This year’s performances ranged from classical vocal pieces and pop vocalists to guitarists and pianists. Also on hand were resident student magician Ross Bernstein and the rocking sounds of The Tor Miller Band.

Presented by Ranney’s Performing Arts Department, the program was coordinated by Tess Nielsen, Performing Arts Chair, John Doyle, Middle and Upper School drama teacher and Kevin Cotter of Ranney’s Music Department. The show was hosted by Thespian Vice President Hannah Simpson and Thespian Secretary Evelyn Giovine.

The entertainers were:

Chris Lombardi, piano, “Money, Money, Money”

Ross Bernstein, magic, “Money & Money” and piano/vocal, “I’ll Try”

Helly Kharkover, vocalist, “Hurt”

Sara Bartosh, “Kansas City”

Hannah Simpson, vocalist, “If I Fell” and “Hello Young Lovers”

Christa Dalmazio, vocalist, “I’ll Know” and “Treble Reel Irish” Step Dancing

Kara Santora, piano, “Clocks”

Raquel Rizzuto, vocalist, “The Voice Within”

Evelyn and Peter Giovine, vocalists, “The Soldier and the Indian Maid”

Megan Sherow, vocalist, “Don’t Rain on My Parade”

The Tor Miller Band, “I Say” and “Save Me”

-Tor Miller, piano/vocals

-Val Kharkover, saxophone

-Joe DiSalvo, guitar

-Mike Morrongiello, bass guitar

-Evan Glazman, drums

The evening also included a table display showcasing some of the Tri-M Music Honor Society’s recent trophies and accomplishments. Last year, Tri-M launched a fund to acquire new musical instruments and to maintain the school’s existing instruments. Through their successful fundraising efforts, a new flute, trumpet, and saxophone were purchased.