The six advanced music students in Deer Park High School’s Phoenix Club vocal chamber ensemble – Baileigh Braithwaite, Amaiyah Elysee, Kesha Elmon, Alaysia Giles-Smith, Heidy Gonzalez Morales and Sophia Sheeler – were invited to sing “The Star-Spangled Banner” at the Suffolk County Legislature on May 6, continuing a tradition coordinated through Suffolk County Legislator Tom Donnelly’s office to showcase student talent from the district at civic events. Their performance was a demonstration of strong musicianship, leadership and commitment to choral excellence. The Phoenix Club had previously sung the National Anthem for Legislator Donnelly in 2023.

“This group is a premier soprano and alto auditioned choir that specializes in a wide variety of music for treble voices,” Phoenix Club Director Catherine Singer said. “Simply, the name ‘phoenix’ means rebirth, regeneration and new beginnings. In almost every culture, the phoenix is associated with positive aspects such as strength, determination, passion, resilience and compassion. These are the aspects that members of this choir hold true.”

Date Added: 5/15/2025