Students in grades 3-8 enjoyed a behind-the-scenes look at the world’s largest pipe organ, a private concert, and tour of the Atlantic City Experience Museum at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall on Mon., May 15. The event was hosted by the Historic Organ Restoration Committee, Inc. and made possible by the Schultz-Hill Foundation, which funds arts education programs for students and seniors in the region.
Nathan Bryson, curator of organs, organist Brett Miller, and the organ restoration team were on hand for the organ tour and special Q&A session. Afterward, students were treated to a concert featuring music across several genres, including pop and classical. The morning culminated with lunch in the arena of Boardwalk Hall.
“Sharing the history of these magnificent instruments and their return to life with local students connects them with Atlantic City’s amazing history,” said Scott Banks, Historic Organ Restoration Committee, Inc. “We always emphasize that this is everyone’s instrument; the next great organist may already be among these students.”
The concert was attended by students from the Principle Academy Charter School in Egg Harbor Twp. and the Highland Academy in Absecon, N.J.
“We love experience-based learning, and this is a tremendous opportunity for our students,” said Theresa Bankes, theater teacher at Highland Academy, a first-time Schultz-Hill Foundation grant recipient. “I hope our students come back with a greater appreciation for the history of Atlantic City, a renewed interest in music of all kinds, and inspiration for future learning. The Schultz-Hill Foundation is a champion for the arts, and we are profoundly grateful to be a part of this experience.”
The concert is part of the Schultz-Hill Foundation’s dedication to promote and support arts, history and education in South Jersey via educational scholarships, direct grants and funding for the Arts, historical and musical programs. For more information, visit http://www.schultz-hill.org.
Photo credit: Nick Valinote
