THE CENTRAL CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL CHAMBER SINGERS, UNDER THE DIRECTION OF JOE WILSON, WILL PERFORM WITH NATIONALLY ACCLAIMED COMPOSER TIM JANIS IN HIS NEW “CELEBRATE AMERICA” MUSICAL SPECIAL ON WQED PITTSBURGH MARCH 7TH AT 6:30PM.

Tim Janis, well known for his “Music with a Mission” has worked on many philanthropic projects with artists such as Paul McCartney, Billy Joel, Ray Charles, Andre Previn, and The New York Philharmonic. He has also produced fund raising programs for PBS with George Clooney and James Earl Jones.

The Central Catholic High School, along with high school choirs from across western Pennsylvania will perform with Tim Janis and his ensemble in a new special called Celebrate America, created by Janis to spotlight our nation’s youth and pull communities together in a celebration of music that uplifts and inspires.

Celebrate America, which airs on Sunday, March 7th at 6:30pm, was taped at WQED Pittsburgh in early October 2009. Buses rolled in from across the state, pulling together 500 students from Pennsylvania high school music programs. Arriving well prepared and very professional, each choir was brought into the station to record their performance for the broadcast.

The Central Catholic High School students did an exceptional job singing “We Shall Overcome.” Student Andrew Muse said, “It was amazing to sing a song representing struggle people go through to achieve freedom and liberty. I hope people watching will be very excited and see that we are representing this program, the community and our country.” Another student Anthony LaRussa said, “It was great to be at WQED and see where Mr. Roger’s started. I am hoping that those watching will be proud of us.”

Not only does Celebrate America give our youth a life-changing opportunity, but it also teaches children the importance of contributing to community through the arts, as Celebrate America is also a fund raising event during Public Television’s annual pledge drives.

WQED Pittsburgh really put a lot of effort into creating this special. It takes a lot of ‘behind the scenes’ effort to bring this great opportunity for students together. I believe the fabric of our nation is the strength found in our local communities. We need to stay connected and committed with a spirit of serving one another to the best of our abilities.” Janis said.