June 2, 2023 – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Clifton Public School Madrigal Singers Earn “Superior” in Choral Festival
Clifton High School's Madrigal Singers recently earned a "Superior" at the American Choral Directors Association New Jersey 2023 High School Choral Festival.
With over 30 schools and 50 choirs participating in the festival over four days, the Clifton High School Madrigal Singers, consisting of 20 students in grades 10-12, had not participated in the festival in roughly 20 years. Choral Director Leonid Weismantel, who began his position in the fall of 2021, expressed his pride in the students and their hard work.
"I am so immensely proud of the students, and I only hope they realize how proud they should be of their work, their music, and their results," stated Wiesmantel. "We went in there and put Clifton back on the choral map in a big way, and, most importantly to me, we did it with Clifton style. These past two years have been really special groups, and I cannot wait to see the momentum we are generating continue to build and see us find further success. These are huge shoes to fill, but I am positive they will take us far."
Ten Clifton High School students who participated are graduating seniors who will be pursuing various musical endeavors after high school. Weismantel believes the festival was a vital step forward for the choir and the program, providing constructive feedback and opportunities for everyone.
"The Madrigal Singers at Clifton High School truly demonstrated their talent and dedication by earning a 'Superior' at the American Choral Directors Association New Jersey 2023 High School Choral Festival," said Jason Leshowitz, Supervisor of Visual and Performing Arts at Clifton Public Schools.
"Even more impressive was to see students earn such an achievement after not participating in the festival for many years. This is truly a testament to Mr. Weismantel's leadership and the hard work of the Madrigal Singers. We hope to see the program and the choir continue to grow and achieve even more success in the future."
Clifton High School Junior Negin Saidian has been a part of the Madrigal Singers since her freshman year of high school. Saidian, a singer since middle school, credits Mr. Weismantel's patience and enthusiasm for her interest in the Madrigals. "He was like a breath of fresh air with his music selection and repertoire that he brought to the group."
While unsure of what to expect from the competition, Ms. Saidan said that she and all the students felt excited, particularly after learning about their "superior" placement. "We were on the bus, and we all started screaming and cheering."
The Madrigal Singers perform at the Winter and Spring choir concerts, caroling in the winter, trips to schools in the district, and miscellaneous performances. Weismantel hopes to recruit more students for the Madrigal Singers through auditions and by showcasing the talent of CHS students.
"It is always a joy to hear the Madrigals perform throughout the district and community," said Dr. Danny A. Robertozzi, Superintendent of Schools. "We are thrilled, though not surprised, to learn of the honor awarded to Clifton's Madrigal Singers at the Festival. As the program grows, I am confident the Madrigal Singers will continue to make us proud in the spirit of our One Clifton motto."
Although the Madrigals' next event has yet to be scheduled, Weismantel encourages everyone to say hello if they see the choir performing and even request a song. The Madrigal Singers have certainly put Clifton back on the choral map, and we look forward to their continued success.
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