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2009 Gala Videos

Natalie Merchant and Perkins Students Wow Crowd

Surprise musical guest Natalie Merchant brought gasps of delight from the crowd when she took the stage backed by the Perkins Secondary Chorus. We hope you enjoy these three videos, capturing the moving performances of this unforgetable evening.

Motherland

The Perkins Trio - Andy Park (accordion), Anton Sviridenko (violin) and John Castillo (baritone vocals) - performed with Merchant. Merchant and Castillo wooed the audience with their vocal duet on the dark and moving “Motherland.” The group was accompanied by Livingston Taylor on guitar and Brian Maes on piano.

Wonder

Merchant's popular hit "Wonder" showcased the vocal talents of the Perkins Secondary Chorus, highlighting soloist Michelle Smith.

Kind & Generous

In a particulary relevant song choice, Merchant blended seamlessly with the students serenading the crowd with the chorus, "Thank you. Thank you."