For Taylor Pontari, “The Star-Spangled Banner” isn’t just a song — it’s a heartfelt tribute to the men and women who serve the country. On May 17, the 19-year-old from Ocean City fulfilled a lifelong dream when she sang the national anthem at Fenway Park, one of America’s most iconic stadiums.
The journey to Fenway began in an unexpected way. Taylor, who performs gigs across South Jersey with her father, Tony Pontari, was discovered while singing the national anthem during one of their sets at the Absecon VFW. “Someone came up to me after a performance and said their best friend was the CEO of the Boston Red Sox,” Taylor recalled. “It was surreal, like lightning in a bottle.”
Taylor’s connection to veterans runs deep. Performing regularly at the Absecon VFW, she’s had countless conversations with veterans who share their stories and offer tokens of gratitude. “A lot of times after I sing the anthem, veterans will tell me how much it means to them,” she said. “Some even give me their challenge coins. Those moments mean everything to me.”
Her performances inspired her to give back. Leading up to her Fenway debut, Taylor raised nearly $2,500 for the Absecon VFW to support local veterans. “It was important for me to use this opportunity to make a difference,” she said. “These funds help keep the VFW running and support the veterans who need it most.”
When the long-anticipated day arrived, Taylor was overwhelmed with emotion. Her family, friends, and supporters traveled to Boston, many carrying signs and wearing temporary tattoos with her face on them. “I couldn’t believe how many people came. Even people I didn’t know that well made the trip,” she said.
Fenway’s Ford Clubhouse offered a VIP experience, but the real magic happened on the field. With over 34,000 fans filling the seats, Taylor clutched the challenge coins she’d received from veterans and took a deep breath before stepping up to the mic. “I thought about the people who had sacrificed so much for our country,” she explained. “Singing from the heart was the only way I could honor them.”
As her voice soared through the stadium, the crowd erupted in cheers. “Hearing that many people cheer felt like a movie,” Taylor recalled. “It didn’t seem real.” Afterward, she embraced her parents and supporters in an emotional celebration.
The Fenway experience has only fueled Taylor’s aspirations. She dreams of singing the national anthem at Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field and Citizens Bank Park, sharing her patriotism and passion with even more audiences. In the meantime, she’s focused on her studies at West Chester University, where she’s majoring in Spanish and American Sign Language with plans to pursue a master’s degree in speech pathology.
Despite her growing fame, Taylor remains grounded and deeply grateful for her roots. Growing up in Ocean City has given her a unique perspective. “I didn’t realize how lucky I was until I left,” she says. “Now, every time I’m home, I’m reminded of how blessed I am to live by the beach.”
This summer, Taylor and her father will continue performing at local venues across South Jersey. Fans can follow their schedule on Tony Pontari’s Facebook page, “Tony Pontari Acoustic,” to catch a performance.
For Taylor, music is more than just a passion; it’s a way to connect with others and give back. Her performance at Fenway Park is a testament to her talent, patriotism, and heartfelt commitment to honoring those who serve. With her voice and vision, there’s no doubt she’ll continue to inspire audiences wherever she goes.
Be sure to catch Taylor perform the National Anthem at the Ocean City Music Pier on Saturday, May 24th at 7 a.m. She will open the annual 31 Heroes Memorial Day Beach Challenge, a race to honor veterans who paid the ultimate sacrifice.
