Simply Awesome.

Sometimes you see things that just make you smile.  Last year, someone turned me on to the musical work at Public School 22 in Staten Island, NYC.  This is not a special school for music, with hand selected students from all around New York City - no, this is a neighborhood school, comprised of a racially diverse student body and varied backgrounds.  However, for some years now, the music coming from this school has garnered national attention.

Music teacher Gregg Breinberg, or "Mr. B" as the students call him, has inspired these students to produce beautiful music for years.  Covering many famous songs, easily recognizable, the students have gained national and international attention, appearing on NBC's Today Show, Nightline, and dozens of newspapers, including the New York Times, The Guardian (London, England), and many, many others.  The students have met and had the honor of singing with numerous musicians, such as Rihanna, Tori Amos, Crowded House, Lady Gaga, Beyonce, and more.  Unreal.

Anyway, here are a few of their songs - remember, these students are in sixth FIFTH AND FOURTH grade (and below)...  (And, thanks for the correction, anonymous poster!)

Jay-Z and Rihanna - "Run This Town"


Jay-Z and Alicia Keys - "Empire State of Mind"


Lady Gaga - "Just Dance"


Owl City - "Fireflies"


You can check out lots more from this amazing school here.