Italian String Orchestra Performs at NHS

NAPLES, Italy (NNS) -- Students and faculty from Naples High School (NHS) at Naval Support Activity Naples, Italy enjoyed a free holiday concert by the Young String Orchestra Conservatory of Avellino, Dec. 19.

The afternoon performance in the NHS gym was part of an ongoing cultural exchange through music. NHS's music students performed and completed lessons at the conservatory in November.

Roberta Pennasilico, Italian language instructor at NHS and coordinator for cultural exchanges, helped plan the conservatory's concert at the high school.

"This is the first time we've done something involving classical music, and it will hopefully develop into a long-term relationship with the conservatory," said Pennasilico. "It is important for our students to get to know the outside local community and make new friends. Italian peers are a great source to practice their target language and learn about the culture of Italy."

The orchestra's 30-minute performance featured music by Ferenc Farcas, Benjamin Britten, and famous Italian composer Antonio Vivaldi.

NHS freshman Davide Dicostanzo said he enjoyed the orchestra's performance and was grateful for their visit.

"The music was very captivating; it's not the type of music that I usually hear," said Dicostanzo. "What I really noticed and liked was that every person in the band was moving their arms at the same time in rhythm. I thought they did a really nice job, and these events should happen more because our school should experience and see what other Italian students do."

The Young String Orchestra Conservatory of Avellino is made up of Italian students who vary in age. Beatrice Gargiulo, 23, is a violinist in the orchestra who's been playing at the conservatory for approximately eight years.

"We really enjoyed playing here," said Gargiulo. "The organization and pupils were very welcoming, and we hope that we can come here again. I like playing in a group because you make a lot of friends and it's different than having to be very focused as a soloist, who has to deal with more pressure."

Pennasilico also said she was thrilled that NHS students were attentive and in tune with the performance.

"The students were really captured by the music, and I was pleased to see how this music can be a great vehicle to bring cultures together," said Pennasilico. "Our goal is for NHS students to play and sing together with the orchestra for another concert here later in the spring."

For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy.