MARGARETVILLE — The music room at Margaretville Central School (MCS) once again transformed into a vibrant concert hall for the annual Fortissimo Winter Music Performance and Fundraiser, an evening that blended professional artistry, student dedication, and community spirit into a powerful celebration of music education. For several hours, students, teachers, guest performers, and supporters mingled and prepared as the stage and sound system underwent final checks. Local musician John Houshmand came to the rescue, patiently troubleshooting wiring issues and fine-tuning the amplifiers until the sound was clear and ready for the evening’s ambitious program.
Guests were welcomed with an array of exquisite hors d’oeuvres and treats prepared by James Bailey (chef) and Alex Rosenberg (co-owner) of Rae’s, the Main Street restaurant that opened in Margaretville last July. Rosenberg said catering the event felt personal, noting that music had always been central in her family while growing up. Her generosity set a gracious tone for the evening, creating a relaxed and convivial atmosphere before the performances began.
Margaretville Central School Board member Doris Warner captured the mood during an interview at the gala. She spoke of her pride in the students’ remarkable talent and praised music teacher Jenna Tucker-Hall for spearheading the event. Warner said the performances exceeded anything she could have imagined as a student, underscoring the depth of creativity and discipline now flourishing in the school’s music program.
That admiration for Tucker-Hall echoed throughout the evening. Students, colleagues, and visiting musicians consistently credited her with shaping the Fortissimo program and guiding its complex logistics. This year’s event, once again largely organized by Tucker-Hall, drew accomplished performers from across Delaware and Otsego counties, reinforcing the gala’s reputation as a magnet for regional talent.
Among those professionals was Kimberly Collison, a pianist, vocalist, and music educator from Oneonta. Collison described reconnecting with Tucker-Hall through shared community ties and professional collaborations, noting how quickly their friendship deepened into a musical partnership. A graduate of the Eastman School of Music, Collison brought both technical mastery and heartfelt warmth to the stage. Her experience working with MCS students proved especially meaningful, as she reunited with former pupils and helped guide young performers through challenging repertoire. The sense of full-circle continuity, linking teachers, students, and past experiences, gave her participation special resonance.
Guitarist and composer John Houshmand also spoke warmly about working with the students. A veteran musician who has spent decades performing and teaching, Houshmand emphasized the importance of patience and long-term dedication in musical development. He relished the chance to mentor students at the precise age when many musicians first discover their lifelong passion. His original composition, “Playground,” showcased both his creative voice and his collaborative spirit, as students joined him for portions of the performance.
Lisa Light of Lali and the Pops added her own dynamic energy to the evening. Known for blending swing, pop, rock, and country influences, Light and her bandmate Jim Rauter brought a polished yet approachable sound that resonated across generations. Light moved seamlessly between bass, violin, and vocals, accompanying students on several selections and performing the jazz standard “All of Me” as a duo with Rauter. Her enthusiasm for working alongside young musicians was evident, and her praise for their versatility and eagerness highlighted the success of the collaborative format that defines Fortissimo.
Throughout the program, students took center stage, performing a wide range of musical styles that reflected both their technical growth and creative curiosity. The evening opened with a warm welcome from Tucker-Hall and student leaders, followed by ensemble pieces arranged by the students themselves. Instrumental selections such as “Greensleeves” and classical arias sat nicely alongside contemporary songs, creating a program that was both educational and entertaining. Vocal performances, including a stirring rendition of Alicia Keys’ “If I Ain’t Got You,” demonstrated emotional depth and polished musicianship.
One of the most moving moments of the evening came through the voices of students who found confidence and belonging in music. MCS teacher Karen Fairbairn, who recorded the performances, later reflected on how deeply she was affected by a duet that brought her to tears. She described how music provides students with a space to thrive, connect, and feel understood, and praised Tucker-Hall for nurturing that environment. Her sentiments echoed the collective feeling that the Fortissimo program offers far more than technical instruction, it creates a vital emotional and social refuge for young people.
The second half of the program continued with a lively mix of jazz, folk, and classic country, culminating in an exuberant finale featuring all students and guest musicians performing Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing.” The song’s message of perseverance and hope mirrored the spirit of the evening, emphasizing the enduring value of artistic ambition and collective effort.
Behind the scenes, the success of Fortissimo rested on a foundation of extraordinary community support. Numerous local businesses, artists, and individuals donated goods, services, and funds, ensuring that the music program remains vibrant and accessible. Contributions ranged from catering and silent auction artwork to technical assistance, promotional support, and financial sponsorship. This broad base of generosity illustrated the deep commitment of the Catskills community to nurturing creativity and opportunity for its youth.
At the close of the night, Tucker-Hall expressed heartfelt gratitude for the collective effort that made the event possible. She spoke of her joy in seeing students shine, the community come together, and tangible support raised for future musical opportunities. While the winter weather challenged attendance, the warmth inside the music room more than compensated, leaving participants energized and inspired.
As temperatures plunged below zero wind chill outside, the atmosphere within Margaretville Central School remained bright with accomplishment and promise. Fortissimo once again affirmed that when students, educators, artists, and neighbors unite around a shared love of music, the result is a harmony that resonates far beyond the final note.
Artist Cena Pohl Crane who donated her work to help the music program at MCS in attendance Saturday evening.
Co-hosting the opening of the MCS music program fundraiser Fortissimo Alani Menendez and Jenna Tucker-Hall
