The Farmingdale School District hosted its annual All-District Concert, featuring student musicians from grades 5 to 12 across all six Farmingdale schools. This year’s performance focused on the band and brought nearly 300 students together to perform at Farmingdale High School Auditorium.
The concert highlighted the growth of students from elementary to high school and underscored the impact of the district’s music program. “Our band staff began preparing for this concert over a year ago,” director of fine and programing arts Greg Warnokowski said. “Their dedication and months of preparation gave our students a musical experience they will cherish.”
The evening started with the 5th and 6th grade All-District band, followed by the Howitt Middle School 7th and 8th grade wind ensemble’s Disney medley. The Farmingdale High School Wind Ensemble performed the first of two world premieres, “Eternal Trailblazer,” a composition by Rossano Galante dedicated to Gina Pellettiere, a former trumpet player and band director.
The night ended with the second world premiere, “The Place Where,” composed by local talent Ken Kamping. The piece celebrates Farmingdale and features tributes to Pellettiere, with references to the town’s famous fight song and local spots. It will only be performed in Farmingdale.
Director Warnokowski praised the concert, saying, “The performances were remarkable, and the premiere of ‘A Place Where’ was a beautiful tribute to Farmingdale.” Next year’s concert will feature the chorus.
