On Sunday, November 1, 2015, Holy Cross High School was alive with the joys of music as Dr. Ronan Tynan opened the school’s Concert Series and retired, long-time faculty member Joseph Jacovino, Jr. was honored for his 35 years of service.
The Holy Cross Concert Series was founded to expose the school and local communities to a wide spectrum of performing arts – music, theatre and dance. All monies raised from this and future events will be given back to the students in support of financial aid and student activities.
Approximately 400 people filled the school auditorium to hear one of the world’s most powerful voices. “This was a wonderful day,” said President, Frank H. Samuelson, Jr. ‘73. “Dr. Tynan’s performance left all of us breathless and inspired.”
The two-hour-plus concert was eclectic, electric and brimming with patriotism. It consisted of Irish standards, religious selections and Broadway show tunes. The audience sat in cathartic euphoria as Dr. Tynan and accompanist, William “Billy” Lewis sang classics such as “Danny Boy”, “Moon River”, “Atlantic Sky”, “The Red Rose”, “Over the Rainbow,” and “The Alleluia”. Mr. Jacovino opened the second act of the concert with Chopin’s “Fantasie Impromptu”. Dr. Tynan closed the show with his empowering version of “God Bless America.”
The Dublin-Ireland born Dr. Tynan was a gold-medal-winning Paralympic athlete. After a severe car accident that left him an amputee, he became a doctor specializing in orthopedics and sports injuries. In his 30s, he switched career paths completely and became a singer. In 1998, he joined the internationally famous music group, The Irish Tenors.
Dr. Tynan shared his messages of passion, faith and empowerment to the Holy Cross student body the following Monday after the concert. He encouraged them to follow their passions and to surround themselves with people who believed in them. “You are the future of America,” said Dr. Tynan. “You’re going to be the doctors, the lawyers, the executives. You’re going to control the finances. Don’t ever forget that. That is a huge responsibility.”
Prior to the concert on Sunday, former Holy Cross music director, Joseph Jacovino, Jr. was honored in a reception in the school’s Alix Family Gallery. Former students and colleagues were in attendance to honor him. “Joe is a pillar not just of the Holy Cross community, but throughout the local music community,” said Principal, Margaret Leger. “He was respected by his students, colleagues and peers.”
“I had been playing music by ear before I came to Holy Cross,” said Vincent Ingala '11. “Joe immediately sat me down and taught me the fundamentals of music theory. His dedication absolutely amazed me. Over 35 years, he never missed a graduation, a school mass or a pep rally. There was always music. He showed his dedication through his actions.”