St. Ann School’s annual spring concert became more than a musical showcase this year – it turned into a moving celebration of resilience and hope for student Victoria Russell, who recently underwent a lifesaving liver transplant.

Held in the school gymnasium, the May 13 event drew a large crowd of families, friends and supporters, all gathered to enjoy the performances and show encouragement for Russell, a chorus member whose medical journey has touched the entire school community.

The concert opened with the school’s beginning instrumental students under the direction of Wendy Helmer. The young musicians performed a series of familiar and traditional selections, including “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star,” “Frère Jacques,” “Oats, Peas, and Beans,” “French Folk Song” and “Hard Rock Blues.”

Advanced band and string students followed with a more varied program highlighting their growing skill. Performances included “Mississippi Cakewalk” by Mark Williams, “Hungarian Dance No. 5” arranged by Will Rapp, featuring percussion, “Pride of the Cadets” by Joseph Compello and “The Black Pearl” by Steve Shanley.

A clarinet trio – Dalton Heimbach, Mayzie Ulicny and Anthony Melek – performed Klaus Badelt’s “He’s a Pirate,” while the string ensemble presented “Finding Figaro” by Carrie Lane Gruselle. The high-energy performance of “Crazy Train,” arranged by Paul Murtha and featuring all student musicians, earned one of the evening’s most enthusiastic responses.

Following the instrumental segment, Chorus Director Ariel Scholz led the chorus, dressed in red, white and blue, in a patriotic program honoring America’s upcoming 250th anniversary.

The audience joined the students in singing “The Star-Spangled Banner,” followed by “God Bless America” and “America the Beautiful.” The chorus continued with spirited renditions of “You’re a Grand Old Flag” and “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,” featuring a solo by Emily Melek.

The evening’s most emotional moment came as attention turned to Russell. Scholz shared details of the student’s medical journey, including her diagnoses of sickle cell anemia, autoimmune hepatitis and pancreatitis, which led to liver failure. Russell received a liver transplant in January and continues her recovery.

As Scholz spoke, photos of Russell’s experiences – including a Dream Come True trip to Disney World – were displayed for the audience. Scholz also explained how she connected with The Sing Me a Story Foundation, an organization that transforms children’s stories into original songs to promote healing.

Through the partnership, composer Thomas Schuttenhelm created an original piece titled “Victory–Victoria,” inspired by Russell’s strength and perseverance. The song’s message of hope – captured in lyrics celebrating Victoria’s light and courage – was performed by the chorus as Russell stood among them.

The performance drew a standing ovation, with many in the audience visibly moved. “We are so grateful she is here with us today,” Scholz said. Schuttenhelm attended the concert and was greeted with an emotional embrace from Russell after the performance.

Family members and friends also had the opportunity to meet the composer. Local television station WFMZ was on site to cover the event and conduct interviews.

Scholz also encouraged community members to support the Russell family as Victoria continues her recovery. Donations can be arranged through the school. Russell’s mother, Chantal Russell, who chose to hear the composition for the first time during the concert, described the piece as “beautiful.”

The concert concluded with “God Bless the USA” by Lee Greenwood. Scholz noted that the chorus has had a successful year, with students participating in PMEA events and the Liturgy Choir attending the Pueri Cantores New Jersey Youth Festival. The group also earned an “excellent” rating at the Music in the Parks festival at Notre Dame High School in Bethlehem.