At the very outset of the program, soprano Lucia Palmieri, pictured below, performed Schubert’s “Ave Maria” and all gathered in a moment of silence immediately after her solo. Tony Procaccini, the day’s music director and a fellow Andrew Warde 1976 classmate, accompanied her on piano. The sing-along then began in earnest.
Due to inclement weather, the event, which grows in strength and numbers each year, took place indoors at the former Knights of Columbus Hall on Park Avenue, directly across from Saint Margaret Shrine, the usual outdoor venue.
The volunteer chorus, which numbered around 30, was the largest ever, and included citizens from Bridgeport, Fairfield, Stratford, Trumbull, Stamford and other local communities. Notwithstanding the uncooperative weather, audience attendance was very high, too.
Songs included Christmas carols such as “O Come, All Ye Faithful” and “Silent Night” and popular songs like “Frosty the Snowman” and “Jingle Bells.” Santa Claus appeared for the children, and a free reception followed the singing.Reverend Alfonso Picone, of Saint Margaret Parish, gave a stirring tribute to the Newtown victims, and gave thanks to all the participants who made the event a success.
Leonard Paoletta, a former Bridgeport mayor and the founder of the sing-along's sponsor, B.A.C.I.O., Inc., reminded all of the upcoming celebration of the birth of Christ and wished all a joyful Christmas.
The chorus was supported by a professional brass quartet led my trumpeter Mike Pontecorvo, his brother Louis (also on trumpet) and trombonist Leroy Loomer and tubist Dave Rapposo.
A great time was had by all, but more importantly, the sad events of Newtown, which occurred so shortly before the sing-along, were kept in perspective, and given time for reflection.
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