On July 23, the East Meadow Summer Music Program had the distinct honor of hosting Broadway stars Lorna Courtney and Gregory Treco for a memorable day filled with music, inspiration, and education. The visit featured an exciting live performance followed by an engaging and hands-on masterclass with student musicians.
Lorna Courtney, widely recognized for originating the role of Juliet in the Tony-nominated Broadway musical “& Juliet,” captivated students with her vocal power and dynamic stage presence. Her portrayal earned her a Tony Award nomination for Best Actress in a Musical. Gregory Treco, a seasoned actor, singer, and composer, is known for his roles in “Hamilton” — where he portrayed both George Washington and Aaron Burr on Broadway and in the national tour. His additional credits include the Broadway production of “Taboo” and a featured role on NBC’s “The Sing-Off.”
The event opened with a thrilling mini concert by the two performers, which left students and staff energized and inspired. During the masterclass that followed, students had the rare opportunity to learn directly from Courtney and Treco. They offered practical tips on vocal performance, character interpretation, and stage presence while also sharing personal stories from their professional journeys. A Q&A session allowed students to ask thoughtful questions about training, career paths, and life as a working performer.
“It was an incredible experience to welcome Lorna and Gregory to our program,” said Michelle Shmuel, director of the East Meadow Summer Music program. “Their artistry and openness made a profound impact on our students, and we are so thankful for the time they spent with us.”
The East Meadow Music Department extends its sincere gratitude to Lorna Courtney and Gregory Treco for their generosity, enthusiasm, and commitment to inspiring the next generation of performers.