Cuyahoga Heights High School’s (CHHS) long-standing tradition of visiting memorable music meccas was revived this year when 27 CHHS musicians visited Nashville, Tennessee April 11-14. Instrumental and Vocal Teacher Noah Hamrick led the trip which was chaperoned by Wendi Cichocki, Jennifer Deka, Chelsey Kovar, Kenneth Ratkosky, and Lisa Ross.
Among their many experiences were a live broadcast of the world-famous Grand Ole Opry, including a live performance by Vince Gill; a private tour of the Gibson (guitar) Garage; and visits to the Ryman Auditorium, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and the Opryland Hotel. The students also toured RCA Studio B where Elvis Presley did most of his recording. Hamrick was invited to play on the same Steinway piano Presley used to record his music. Members of the Scarlet Angels “performed” by singing "Landslide" by Fleetwood Mac while Hamrick played.
“It was a once-in-a-lifetime amazing experience.” noted Hamrick. “Not only was it educational, but it allowed the students to make priceless memories with their friends,” said Hamrick, who plans to continue the tradition of taking music enrichment trips every few years.