by SC Features Writer Reanna Haase
Excitement filled the room when The Sanibel School Choir Director announced that Seahorse Chorale students would have the opportunity to perform in both Boston and New York City for the 250th anniversary of the U.S. – news that had been previously labeled top secret.
“The students are, well, let’s just say, excited is an understatement,” Choir Director Joey Giangreco said. “When I made the official announcement, they were just jumping for joy, and so much excitement from both the students and their families.”
While the choir has previously performed at notable venues, the April 2026 tour marks a milestone: their first experience featuring consecutive performances in two different cities.
The Sanibel Seahorse Chorale performs at Disney and The Grand Ole Opry
“I want to give my students some incredible performance opportunities that they will forever remember,” Giangreco said. “To help to spread their talents and love of music, and our love of music, with people from our school, our community, and beyond.”
Giangreco was drawn to this tour not just by the opportunity to perform during the U.S. 250th anniversary celebrations, but by the chance to immerse students in living history. The group will perform at two iconic locations: Faneuil Hall in Boston and the One World Trade Center in New York City.
“Of course, both Boston and New York City have such historical significance,” he said. “We wanted to get as much exposure to the historical sites of our country as possible.”
Seahorse Chorale comprises 17 students, which is nearly a quarter of The Sanibel School’s middle school population. Giangreco’s goal is to ensure that all students in the group have the opportunity to participate in this unique experience.
“Our goal is to make sure that funds are not the reason a particular student does not go on the trip. So, we’re working on these fundraisers to help offset the cost for families,” he said.
The choir has organized a number of fundraising opportunities to spread the word in the community. Upcoming events are as follows:
October 18, Point Ybel Brewing fundraiser
• Special “All American Apple Seltzer” brew – all proceeds will go to the Seahorse Chorale
• Additionally, $1 from each beer, on tap, goes to the choir when mentioning Seahorse Chorale
• Giangreco will perform live at 6 PM
November 3, Karaoke contest at Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen, 4:30 to 8:30 p.m.
November 19, Fall Music Showcase at Sanibel School, 6:30 p.m.
• Performances from Seahorse Chorale, Steel Drum Band, Elementary Choir, and ORFF Club
December 12-13, Christmas Tree Festival and Auction at Margaritaville Beach Resort
• All concession stand proceeds go to the trip fund
• Creating themed trees with special gifts for bidding
December 18, Holiday Program at Sanibel School, 6 p.m.
• Features performances from students K-8 – Seahorse Chorale, Elementary Choir, ORFF Club, Steel Drum Band, and K-3 classes
• Free for all to attend
• All concession stand proceeds go to the trip fund
January 17, Putt & Pub on Fort Myers Beach, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Each putt-putt golf hole will be at a local business that has offered to support an organization
• Seahorse Chorale will be supported by Mr. Waves Island Bar
January 30, Perform the National Anthem at the Miami Heat vs Chicago Bulls NBA game
• Seahorse Chorale will be selling tickets to come to the game and support them
Can’t make it to one of the upcoming fundraising events? Seahorse Chorale is also accepting donations through the Sanibel School Fund, and this can be done here. For any future events, find updates on The Sanibel School’s Instagram and Facebook pages.
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