South Philly POPS With Jazzy Pop Up

by Maria Merlino
The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society’s East Passyunk Pop Up Garden at 9th & Wharton Streets was the location for the Philly POPS kick off for the new program that reinvents music education through a pilot program at South Philadelphia HS.

RISING STAR Tony DeSare tickled ivories and entertained with classic songs of Frank Sinatra. Photo by Maria Merlino

The “POPS in Schools” program was launched in June to supplement and enhance the School District’s current music programs. POPS in Schools will reach approximately 1,000 students by embedding POPS musicians in 10 high schools to coach and mentor music students. Instruction in specialized fields will result in expanded opportunities for artistic development and discovery among students.
Held in partnership with the School District of Philadelphia, Yamaha, Jacobs Music and PHS, the audience was treated to a beautiful sunny afternoon Sep. 9. A 30-minute concert by the unique stylings of Tony DeSare, a critically acclaimed musician who regaled them with songs from Gershwin, Berlin, Porter, Kern and Sinatra.

WITH BACKDROP of the mural of all South Philly crooners, Philly Pops CEO, Frank Giordano with V.P. of Philly Pops, Karen Corbin, enjoy afternoon of piano music at the Pop Up Garden at 9th & Wharton Streets. Photo by Maria Merlino

“This is a way to get music to the people,” said Frank Giordano. “We’re showcasing the extraordinary talent Philadelphia and the Philly Pops has to offer.”

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