How Would You Like to Host "The Young American"

How Would You Like to Host "The Young American"

For the period from Wednesday, Oct. 15 through Sunday, Oct. 19, the "Young Americans", a group of about 44 "kids" between the ages of 18 and 25, will be in the Chester and Black River area as they prepare for a major concert at Green Mountain Union High School.

The Young Americans, a nonprofit world-wide performing and music education organization, have worked with over a half million children around the world. Known as the world’s first show choir, the Young Americans invented the “glee” concept in the early 1960’s. This opportunity is endorsed by Mark Walberg.  He is currently known for his performance as host and producer of the “Antiques Roadshow” on ETV. Walberg was a former “Young American” after college.  The group has travelled extensively in this country and internationally.

The Young Americans will be presenting a workshop and concert dealing with “Turn Up the Music”, a program aimed at working with over 2,000 school systems.  According to the Young Americans program objective, “It has been very apparent that schools everywhere are looking for new and creative ways to keep their fine arts programs alive and healthy. Our new show, Turn Up The Music, is kicking off just such an opportunity for schools, as part of our campaign, to raise one million dollars for the schools we work with throughout the United States in the next 3 years”.

Since they receive no salaries or payments for their services, the group seeks to find  area home owners willing to open their homes to two group members while they are in the area.  According to Cynthia Austin, music teacher at Green Mountain High School and supporter of the Yong Americans, “Staying in the home of families associated with the workshops and concert put on by the group is really one of the most rewarding aspects of the worksop participants and host families”.  Austin noted that those families hosting two Young Americans will receive two free tickets to the Oct. 18 concert in the preferred seating section.  Constance Wilcox, music teacher in the Black River, Ludlow, and Mt Holly school systems, is assisting Austin in the event preparations.

Austin also noted that many of the graduates of the Young Americans have gone on to performing in leading roles in Broadway musicals, TV programs, stage concerts, and behind the scene functions.

The schedule for interested families will be:

Wednesday, Oct 15 at 6 pm – pick up two group members at Green Mountain High School

Thursday, Oct 16 – bring group members to Green Mountain High School at 9 am – return for lunch – take home at 9 pm

Friday, Oct 17 – bring group members to Green Mountain High school at 7:45 am – lunch – and take home at 6 pm

Saturday, Oct 18 – bring group members to Green Mountain High School at 9 am – lunch – take home at9:30 PM

Sunday, Oct 19 – bring group members to Green Mountain High School at 8 am for their departure from area.

On Thursday, Oct. 16, the Young Americans will conduct a performance at a special assembly at Green Mountain High School.  Their major concert will be Saturday evening at the same venue.

In addition to providing sleeping arrangements, the host families will be responsible for 4 breakfasts, 2 packed lunches, and 2 dinners.

Interested families may contact Cindi Austin at (802) 875-2146 or cynthia.austin@trsu.org.