CNS Vocal Jazz performs at WCNY Studios

On Tuesday, October 29, the Cicero-North Syracuse High School Vocal Jazz Ensemble gave a special performance at WCNY Studios in downtown Syracuse. The group, directed by CNS Chorus Teacher Danielle Rausa, was invited to perform as part of Mrs. Rausa’s recognition as the WCNY Classic FM Music Educator Award honoree for September 2024. The Classic FM Music Educator Award was established in 2022 to recognize outstanding teachers across the region.

Mrs. Rausa expressed her gratitude for the recognition and the chance to share this unique experience with her students. “The opportunity to perform in a professional studio and interact with industry professionals like Bruce Paulsen was inspiring for all of us,” she said. “It was truly a day they will remember, and I’m so proud of the students’ dedication and performance.”

For the students, the day was as educational as it was exciting. They explored WCNY’s sound engineering studios, got a behind-the-scenes look at producing a live broadcast, and engaged with media professionals. Senior Brooke Todd expressed her joy in being able to perform at WCNY and celebrate Mrs. Rausa’s accomplishment. “The experience was one to remember for years to come! Mrs. Rausa is always putting us in the spotlight, so it was wonderful to see her in it for a change. She has deserved this for years, and I was thrilled to see it finally happen.”

Classic FM Program Manager Diane Jones praised the group’s enthusiasm and talent, emphasizing the importance of supporting young artists. “We’re thrilled to recognize teachers like Mrs. Rausa, whose passion for music shines through her students. WCNY is committed to uplifting voices in our community, and these talented students represent the future of arts in Syracuse,” she said.

Jones also highlighted the distinction of Mrs. Rausa’s award within the North Syracuse Central School District. “In the entire time we’ve presented the Classic FM Educator of the Month Award, this is just the second time a school district has had two different teachers selected for the honor,” Jones shared. “We’re thrilled to recognize educators who inspire their students to engage deeply with music, and the NSCSD teachers are a prime example.” The district’s first recipient of the award was CNS Band Teacher Karen Seamans, who received the honor in November 2023.

In addition to the upcoming radio broadcasts, WCNY is producing a special video segment capturing highlights from the visit and featuring interviews with Mrs. Rausa and her students. The video, scheduled for release later in November, will offer a closer look at the Vocal Jazz Ensemble’s performance and Mrs. Rausa’s teaching philosophy, which has brought her both local and regional recognition. The video will be shared on the NSCSD website.

This award celebrates the impactful work of music educators who go above and beyond, and Mrs. Rausa’s devotion to her students and the art of choral music shines brightly through her efforts. As her students left WCNY Studios, they were not only proud of their performance but also inspired by the possibilities of a future in the arts.

Be sure to tune in to Classic FM on November 7, 9, and 12 to hear these talented students in action, and stay tuned for the video feature celebrating the CNS Vocal Jazz Ensemble and their incredible teacher, Mrs. Rausa.

Members of the CNS Vocal Jazz Ensemble are: Ava Wilbur, Kobe Henderson, Abby Gonçalves, Kaden Brown, Alex Davenport, Joey Cox, Brooke Todd, Lucy Barrera, Raiah DeLooze, Noah Seitz and Evan Dwyer.