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Denzel Washington School of the Arts students spread Christmas cheer for all to hear at the Mount Vernon Public Library

Students playing instruments.
Denzel Washington School of the Arts students spread Christmas cheer for all to hear at the Mount Vernon Public Library

The sounds of symphonies could be heard throughout the Mount Vernon Public Library on Thursday, December 19, 2024 as Denzel Washington School of the Arts orchestra majors spread Christmas cheer for the community to rejoice in before the holidays. 

“It’s really nice to get out of the building and perform in a space where people can come by and listen who maybe weren’t expecting it,” said Allen Maracle, music teacher at DWSA. “It’s nice to be working on some fun music as we get towards the end of the semester. It was really fun; people seemed to really enjoy it, they played really well, they worked hard and it paid off.” 

The group performed a plethora of songs under the direction of Mr. Maracle. Some of the melodies performed included “The First Noel,” "Silent Night,” “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” “Frosty the Snowman,” “Joy to the World,” and more. 

“I like seeing people gather around when they hear us play,” said Karissa Hinds, a senior at DWSA. “When people walk past us and tell us we’re great, it’s really encouraging.”

This is the first time the group performed at the Mount Vernon Public Library, and are optimistic about showcasing their talents there again. Initiatives such as this one not only help create relationships within the community, but also help students build their confidence in themselves and their craft. 
 

Students posing next to Christmas tree.
Students playing music at Mount Vernon Public Library.

 

Chris Wragge and Dr. Smith.
DWSA student-artists perform on "Class Act" with Chris Wragge for DWSA feature story

Denzel Washington School of the Arts students were featured on CBS’s latest “Class Act” with Chris Wragge. A pep rally was held on Friday, January 24, 2025, featuring drumline, dance, poetry and vocal performances. Students in the crowd cheered on their classmates as they performed for the live broadcast. 

To view more coverage of "Class Act" with Chris Wragge at DWSA click here and here. 

Read more to view more clips from the show!

Students standing on stage with man.
Three DWSA students awarded at Omega Psi Phi Talent Hunt

The Omega Psi Phi Talent Hunt took place at Denzel Washington School of the Arts on Friday, January 10, 2025. The Omega Psi Phi Talent Hunt is designed to identify and support talented youth across the nation. Students competed in Dance, Vocal, Dramatic Interpretations, Visual Arts and Music competitions. DWSA students took first, second and third place. First place went to Charlize Ford (Vocal), who won $500. Second place went to Lexus Boymandjia (Dramatic Interpretation), and she won $300. Third place went to Eric Buchanan. He won $200.

DWSA celebrates excellence as over 150 students make the honor roll
DWSA celebrates excellence as over 150 students make the honor roll

On Wednesday, November 27, 2024, Denzel Washington School of Arts students crowded into the large auditorium, sharing excitement with their peers to celebrate those who made it onto the honor roll. Middle and high school levels cheered together as over 150 DWSA students walked across the stage to collect their certificates and stand together in their achievement.