FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP — A group of eighth-grade pupils at Freehold Township’s Eisenhower Middle School have a unique way of giving something back to the community — they sing.
The students are advanced vocalists who perform in local venues to entertain and uplift students in local schools, and adults and children in the community.
Music teacher Jesse Ryan founded the group known as Stardust three years ago.
Stardust has already performed at the Freehold Township Education Foundation Gala on Nov. 3 and at the Eisenhower Middle School on Dec. 1 and Dec. 2.
The group is ready to launch a “Spirit Tour” on Dec. 7. Musical performances will be presented at the Freehold Township Early Childhood Learning Center, at the Monmouth Crossing assisted living facility, and at the Freehold Raceway Mall.
Stardust will perform at Barnes and Noble, Route 9, Freehold, on Dec. 10 at 5 p.m.
The group will also perform at Center State Medical Center, Freehold Township, in the lobby to entertain visitors, and in other areas of the hospital for patients.
Stardust will perform holiday selections and songs such as “Wings of a Dove,” “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen, and “Season of Love” from “Rent.”
“The theme of our concerts is peace, love and goodwill,” Ryan said. “Our concerts have a nice upbeat mix.”
He said the pupils helped to select the songs to be performed.
“It gives them a feeling of ownership when they are a part of planning the music,” Ryan said. “We work on arrangements with their input and then the concert’s personality takes form as we go along. It always works out and it always feels good.”
“Stardust is a way for the eighth-graders to really apply themselves and focus their interest on giving back to the community,” the teacher said. “This group also shows what music can do for them and for the community.
“I also wanted the group to see how their performance can affect people who hear them, and I am proud of their ability to light up those in a senior residence or sing for little kids who look up to them and ask them questions. It is a good feeling to see that they have such a positive impact on people. Their talent spreads good feelings,” Ryan said.