High Point junior sings for seniors

SUSSEX BOROUGH — High Point Regional High School junior Kelly Wask has one thing in common with Sussex County senior citizens: they both love the same music.

Wask specializes in singing music of the Golden Age of Jazz, including standards made famous by Ella Fitzgerald, Etta James, and Judy Garland.

The residents of Barn Hill Care Center, Bentley Assisted Living, and Bristol Glen heard some of their favorite music sung with great style and confidence in August as Wask performed programs consisting of great jazz music and a healthy dose of old-fashioned country. Wask also performed for seniors at the New Jersey State Fair on August 7, along with High Point senior Casey Seely, who is known for her yodeling.

Seely earned first place at the "Sussex County's Got Talent" competition last summer, and Wask earned first place this year.

"The music is classic and timeless," Wask said when asked about what appeals to her about music from bygone eras. "People hear it and although they haven't heard some of it in a while. It makes them smile. I love what the power of music can do and how it touches people."

Dori Martin, Wask's High Point music teacher and accompanist, appreciates her student's dedication.

"Kelly has worked very hard the past two or three years to master the style of some of the greatest singers in history," Martin said. "I knew that she would jump at the chance to share her artistry with seniors who really know and love jazz. The seniors couldn't believe that Kelly was singing with such maturity and style at age 16."

Wask intends to pursue a career in music, and is preparing for college auditions as she studies with Judith Cosentino of Blairstown and Elisa Girlando of Hamburg.