On March 31, 2023 the Howitt Symphonic Band, under the direction of Erica Hartmann and the Howitt Chamber Orchestra, under the direction of Samuel Gelfer, performed for NYSSMA Music in Our Schools Month in Albany, NY. The students performed for local Senators and Assembly members as well as community members and family members. In collaboration with the Taconic Hills Chamber chorus, under the direction of Rebecca Miller, all three groups performed a finale of America The Beautiful. Farmingdale’s own Samuel Gelfer arranged the piece for orchestra. The day included a guided tour of the State Capital where Senator Steven Rhoads brought the groups into the Senate chamber to give them a photo opportunity in the Senate seats! Students were able to take pictures and learn the history of the Million Dollar Staircase, Governor's Reception Room, and countless pieces of artwork throughout the 1867 historical building. The State Museum offered fun exhibits of the Adirondacks, gems, Native American artifacts, New York native wildlife and so much more. It was a memorable day of music, history and culture! Mrs. Hartmann and Mr. Gelfer are proud to have brought a little piece of Farmingdale to our State Capital.