St. Petersburg School Choir Sings with Rock Legends

St. Petersburg Collegiate High School Choir performing on stage with Foreigner.

News Summary

On March 15, 2025, the St. Petersburg Collegiate High School Choir performed alongside the legendary rock band Foreigner at The BayCare Sound in Clearwater. This unforgettable concert highlighted the importance of music education, as Foreigner’s lead singer encouraged support for school music programs. The collaboration showcased the students’ talent and passion for music while advocating for critical funding for arts education across schools. The event was a blend of rock energy and youthful enthusiasm, leaving a positive impact on the community.

St. Petersburg Students Share the Stage with Rock Legends!

St. Petersburg, Florida was buzzing with excitement on March 15, 2025, as the St. Petersburg Collegiate High School Student Choir took the stage with none other than rock legends, Foreigner, and the band’s original lead vocalist, Lou Gramm. This special concert, held at The BayCare Sound in Clearwater, was not just a night of incredible music; it also carried a heartfelt message about the value of music education in schools.

A Night to Remember

As the choir gathered on the stage, their harmonious voices filled the air with the powerful ballad “I Want To Know What Love Is.” This performance wasn’t merely a fun collaboration; it was a testament to the talent and hard work of the students, showcasing their passion for music and the arts. The event underscored the spirit of community, blending the energy of Rock ‘n’ Roll with the enthusiasm of young performers.

The Heart of the Performance

This impressive concert was organized in partnership with The Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts at Ruth Eckerd Hall. This organization has a mission to change lives through the performing arts, reaching more than 60,000 students each year with diverse programs and classes. The collaboration highlighted both the local talent and the larger movement to support arts education within schools across the region.

Music Education Matters

During a heartfelt moment at the concert, the lead singer of Foreigner, Kelly Hanson, thanked the young choir members for their incredible performance and underscored the band’s long-standing tradition of involving student choirs during their tours. However, the night was also about raising awareness for a critical issue — the lack of funding for school music programs.

Hanson emphasized how important it is for educators, parents, and community members to advocate for music education. He handed out a challenge to the audience to reach out to school boards and local politicians to help bolster the funding and resources that schools need to support music initiatives. It’s a call to action that resonated with everyone in attendance, reminding us all of the vital role that music plays in education and personal development.

Making a Difference

Principal Ryan Halstead of St. Petersburg Collegiate High School also expressed the importance of such opportunities for students. Schools play a crucial role in helping young individuals showcase their talents, and performing arts programs are essential in nurturing those skills. Events like this concert not only give students a platform but also inspire them to pursue their passion for music.

Engaging the Community

This concert was part of Foreigner’s ongoing tour, which emphasizes community engagement and the significant support for school music initiatives. As the evening drew to a close, the buzz in the air was palpable, a feeling of unity and hope for the future of music education.

The Power of Music

In conclusion, the collaboration between the St. Petersburg Collegiate High School Choir and Foreigner is a fantastic example of how music can bring communities together and spark positive changes. Not only did the students get to share the stage with icons, but they also helped shine a light on an important issue. Let this be a reminder that through the power of music, we can all advocate for a brighter future for arts education!