MERIDIAN, Miss. (WTOK) -Students from the Meridian High School Choir recently traveled to New York City, New York, for a remarkable arts education experience that included performing at the world-renowned Carnegie Hall. During the trip, students had the opportunity to sing on one of the most prestigious concert stages in the world while sharing the stage with renowned conductors and concert artists.<\/p>\n
\u201cPerforming at Carnegie Hall was certainly the highlight of the trip, but the experience was about so much more than one performance. Our students were exposed to world-class musicians, professional performances, and a city rich in history, culture, and the arts,\u201d said Alanna Burns, MHS Choir Director. \u201cMany of them had never experienced opportunities on this scale before.\u201d <\/p>\n
\u201cYesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, so treat today like the gift it truly is. Performing at Carnegie Hall and experiencing New York taught me to cherish every moment and take advantage of every opportunity because you never know when you\u2019ll get a chance to do something life changing,\u201d said Jarnez Barron, MHS Senior.<\/p>\n
In addition to their Carnegie Hall performance, students attended a Broadway musical and participated in other enriching experiences throughout New York City. These opportunities allowed students to broaden their perspective and appreciation for the performing arts.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis type of opportunity is transformational for students,\u201d said Dr. Antonio Altman, Director of Arts for Meridian Public School District. \u201cWhen students are able to perform in a historic venue such as Carnegie Hall and experience the arts in a city like New York, it reinforces the importance of exposure to opportunities. These experiences help students see what is possible when their talents are nurtured and supported.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cExposure matters because it helps students expand their vision for what is possible. Whether it was singing on the Carnegie Hall stage, attending a Broadway show, or simply navigating New York City, every experience challenged them to grow as musicians, students, and young adults,\u201d said Burns. \u201cI am incredibly proud of the way they represented Meridian and Meridian Public School District throughout the trip.\u201d<\/p>\n
Following the New York experience, Meridian Public School District is continuing to invest in vocal development through the MPSD Middle School & High School Vocal Enrichment Camp, taking place June 1\u20135, 2026, at Meridian High School from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.<\/p>\n
The camp is designed for middle and high school students and focuses on strengthening vocal musicianship, performance skills, and confidence. Camp activities include literature interpretation, vocal technique, portfolio and team building, and other activities that support student growth.<\/p>\n
Through music and arts education, students develop skills in literacy, language, history, collaboration, discipline, and creative expression. These experiences support the district\u2019s goal of providing high-quality opportunities that help students grow both inside and beyond the classroom.<\/p>\n
Meridian Public School District celebrates the achievements of the MHS Choir students and applauds the work of its choir directors, school leaders, families, and community partners who continue to support meaningful arts experiences for students.<\/p>\n