The 2nd annual Pianos and Poets night at Walt Whitman High School was a big hit for both performers and the audience. This special night, started by Vito Monti, one of the co-advisors for The Collective Recording Studio club, gives students an opportunity to not only perform in front of a live audience, but also a chance to be part of a live recorded album. 

“It was the chance for all the kids to just recreate themselves, take risks, and practice their craft and create art. And that's just so healing for them and so cathartic and so important,” shared Mr. Monti. There was a full lineup of student performances from original poetry to piano pieces, both classical and original, as well as a full band performance.

This event was created because of the number of remarkable musicians who have come through Walt Whitman High School’s music program. But not every talented student joins a school music program or club.  “We had kids who weren't in Ensemble, they weren't in Choir, they weren't in Voices, they weren't in Jazz Band, none of that. But they practiced their craft at home, and they love music, and they play guitar. They like to sing, but they didn't really have a home to call their own. And I thought that we needed to create a performance outlet for those kids,” explained Mr. Monti.  He wanted to create space for them to practice and share their craft, and celebrate it with the community. 

The Collective and Xanadu thank Dr. Murphy and SHEF for their unwavering support of the arts and music in South Huntington schools. Stay tuned for the release date of the live album!

Pianos and Poets 2025 Photo Gallery





 

Students got to share their original poetry with the audience.

Friends banded together for the second annual event.

Teachers Vito Monti (left) and Dave Rickmers (right) performed between student acts.

Members of The Collective Recording Studio Club appreciated having the chance to perform and record their music at the high school.