A wedding to remember

Lawrence marching band performs Jewish music

By Yaffi Spodek

Issue of Sept. 26, 2008

Guests at the wedding of Steven Rozenberg and Rachel Weinstock in New Rochelle on Aug. 21 were treated to a unique musical performance: The Lawrence High School marching band performed a selection of traditional Jewish melodies.

It was arranged by the father of the bride, David Weinstock, as a surprise to the guests. It also worked out well for themarching band.

“This provided an opportunity for our marching band to expand its repertoire so that we can reflect the rich cultural heritage in our community,” explained Gary Schall, the director of music for the Lawrence Public Schools. “The kids really enjoyed playing the music, and the crowd appreciated it as well.”

After the main course was served, the 21 band members, accompanied by a flag-carrying color guard, entered in full uniform, playing trumpets, drums, horns and a tuba. They performed several well-known Jewish tunes, including a number popularized by the performer Chaim Dovid.

“We are looking for any and every opportunity to play this repertoire again,” Schall told The Jewish Star. “It is important for a band of any kind to play whatever is possible for its community, and if this is music that represents our community, then we are happy to do it.”

Schall arranged the songs together with Alan Katz, a music teacher from Lawrence, and practiced with the band members over the course of seven rehearsal periods during the summer.

“The kids were so excited about the opportunity,” Schall recalled. “Every band member that was around wanted to participate and one student even came back from camp to play at the wedding.”

As a sign of their appreciation, the Weinstock family has made a donation to the Lawrence High School Music Department for its upcoming concert performance trip to Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Every two years, the school’s marching band, orchestra and chorus perform there for an audience of thousands. This year, with the formation of the Academy of Fine and Performing Arts, the school will send over 250 students, a large percentage of whom cannot afford to pay their way.

“The generosity of the Weinstocks will help us to make sure that no child is left behind,” said Schall.

The Lawrence High School Marching Band, directed by Gary Schall, played a unique repertoire of traditional and popular Jewish songs at the Aug. 21 wedding of Steven Rozenberg and Rachel Weinstock. (Photos courtes of Lawrence High School)