South Brunswick High School Choir Invited To Perform At Prestigious Carnegie Hall

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ — South Brunswick High School's Concert Choir has earned a coveted invitation to perform at Carnegie Hall, one of the world's most prestigious musical venues, the district announced Tuesday.

They will be performing as part of the Octavo Festival Chorus on March 9, 2026.

The ensemble, directed by Aldo Aranzulla, will join select choirs from across the nation under the leadership of John Wilson, Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities at SUNY New Paltz.

Wilson, a nationally recognized conductor and educator celebrated for his artistry in advancing choral music, personally recommended the SBHS Concert Choir for this exclusive performance—a distinction that speaks to the exceptional quality of both the ensemble and its director.

“This invitation to Carnegie Hall is not only an incredible honor for our students, but also a celebration of the music education tradition in South Brunswick,” said Robert Sears, K–12 Supervisor of Music. “Our students’ dedication and artistry, combined with the commitment of our teachers across all grade levels, make once-in-a-lifetime opportunities like this possible.”

Carnegie Hall extends invitations to only a select number of ensembles annually, with participation in the Octavo Festival Chorus reserved exclusively for choirs demonstrating exceptional musicianship and professionalism.

South Brunswick Public Schools' comprehensive music program has earned consistent recognition as a Best Community for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation. The district's musical pathway begins in kindergarten with general music classes that foster creativity, musical literacy, and artistic passion. Students can join their first choir in third grade, launching a progression of experiences that continues through middle and high school.

This K-12 approach develops not only technical artistry but also confidence and community connection, preparing students for extraordinary opportunities like performing on one of the world's most celebrated stages.

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