Assemblyman Mike Norris (R,C-Lockport) welcomed students from the 144^th Assembly District performing in the All-State Instrumental and Vocal Jazz Ensembles Concert at the New York State School Music Association’s (NYSSMA) 51^st Annual Joseph R. Sugar NYSSMA Day in Albany, held on March 4, 2024. This event kicked off NYSSMA’s annual monthlong advocacy event celebrating “Music in Our Schools” across the state and showcasing select student musicians in the New York State Concourse at the State Capitol in Albany.

“The accomplishments of our students in music and the arts are truly tremendous and worth celebrating—and funding,” said Norris. “While we negotiate a final state budget, listening to the students performing Amazing Grace and other wonderful songs today is truly inspiring and a reminder of how vital it is to continue prioritizing funding for our schools in order to safeguard programs like this. I hope the governor and other legislative leaders heard loudly and clearly the work of these wonderful students—and will do so throughout the rest of the month—and restore any and all cuts they have considered to school aid.”

In addition to performing Amazing Grace, the students also performed a selection of songs that included Seven Days by Sting, Sweet Georgia Brown, Anthropology, Desert Song, Give Me the Simple Life, and The Star-Spangled Banner.