STAFFORD, Va. — Barbara Perry had been at home taking care of sick children when she got the call.
A choir teacher at Stafford County’s Colonial Forge High School, telemarketers often ring her at home urging the school to plan their next big choir field trip with their respective agencies. She admits she really wasn’t paying attention on the call until she heard the name of a favorite classic rock band.
“I really wasn’t invested in the conversation, and they said ‘we’re looking for a group to perform with Foreigner,’ and I was like ‘what?’”
Not a travel agent, but rather an entertainment agent was on the other end of the line. They had gotten Perry’s number from Mary Washington University in Fredericksburg after country music star Kenny Rodgers invited an local high school orchestra to perform with him at the University in April.
Perry accepted the invitation to perform and sprang into action. And two weeks later, last Friday night, 25 members of Colonial Forge’s Chamber Choir sang back-up vocals on Foreigner’s 1984 platinum hit, “I want to know what love is” at Celebrate Virginia Live.
“I sent out an email to students and I got back emails that said ‘yes, yes, yes.’ Some said ‘who is Foreigner?’ but they were all excited to sing in the show,” said Perry.
The song wasn’t a stretch for the choir because, uncannily, the students had performed the song during a spring choir show.
For this performance, the band sent a CD with the song and simply told Perry to teach the kids the lyrics and learn the harmony. She had about two weeks to prepare.
The show went off without a hitch on Friday. The choir joined the band on stage, and the audience also sang with them.
While there the students helped to sell Foreigner CDs – where proceeds of the sales went to benefit U.S. schools without music education programs.
“They got a big rearward out of doing this service project. Yes they sang, but it was about the whole experience,” said Perry.
Afterward, Foreigner signed a commemorative CD for the choir which will be auctioned off to raise funds for the school’s music program next year.
Recent Stories
The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Warning for much of the region. Strong winds are expected to develop Sunday morning and persist through Monday, with wind gusts reaching up to 60 mph in some areas.
Firefighters in Stafford County responded to a house fire Saturday evening, rescuing two cats and assisting displaced residents.
Welcome to the Potomac Local News Podcast. In this episode, host Uriah Kiser sits down with Dr. Janet Gullickson, President of Germanna Community College, as she reflects on her impactful tenure and upcoming retirement.
Looking for live music and great food? Head to Farm Brew Live on Discovery Boulevard near Manassas on Sunday, February 16, from noon to 3:30 p.m. for an unforgettable performance indoors at the PourHouse at 2 Silos.
A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
