KINGMAN, Ariz. – One of Kingman Unified School District’s own music educators enjoyed a once-in-a-lifetime experience this summer, performing on the legendary stage at Carnegie Hall.
On June 14, Dr. Michael Paceño, General Music Teacher at Desert Willow Elementary School, collaborated with professional singers and music educators in New York City. The vocal group, under the direction of Dr. Sinamar Pascua Respicio and Dr. Aaron Price, delivered the East Coast premiere of “Train, Stopping” by W. Aaron Rice. Paceño was joined by international colleagues from the Philippines, members of the Academy of Tucson High School, the Tucson Women’s Chorus, Tucson area church choirs, and vocalists from across the country. The historic performance marked the first time Filipino music composed by Filipino composers was performed at Carnegie Hall.
Reflecting on the event, Dr. Paceño shared, “This special collaboration showcased the power of choral music to tell stories, build friendships, and connect communities through a shared love of music.”
As the old saying goes, getting to Carnegie Hall takes practice—and Dr. Paceño’s talent has truly crescendoed to a new level.
