'Lifetime Opportunity': Newton Sound Factory Performs for United Nations

For the Newton Sound Factory, this Monday morning was far from ordinary. They had the distinct honor of playing at a major United Nations conference in Atlanta. This high school band from Newton High School left their hometown to take center stage at the Conference of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, hosted at the Georgia World Congress Center.

An International Gathering

History was in the making as the United Nations held this conference on U.S. soil, outside of New York for the first time, with delegates from more than 190 countries witnessing the band's performance. The director of bands, Jason Smith, expressed the surreal feeling of the occasion, highlighting the reality of the event only setting in as they arrived and took in the names of the countries seated at the conference.

A Selected Honor

In a demonstration of their exemplary talent, Newton High's Sound Factory was chosen over other high school and university bands in the surrounding regions, a fact proudly shared on the Newton County Schools' Facebook page. Smith recounted how an email among many caught his attention and led to this prestigious invitation, one that he secured quickly by confirming their readiness and eagerness to participate.

Keeping It a Secret

The initial contact regarding this opportunity came on September 11, compelling Smith and the school officials to maintain secrecy for a while before ultimately revealing the plans to the students, who at first couldn't quite believe the news. The significance of the event became undeniable for the students when security measures at the venue included dogs sniffing their instruments.

A Memorable Performance

With high stakes, the band decided to go big, putting together their longest medley, featuring hits across decades from iconic artists such as The Temptations, Adele, Elton John, The Beatles, and Michael Jackson, concluding with 'American Boy' by Estelle. Smith's philosophy of treating every performance with utmost seriousness was echoed, hinting at the possibility of an influential audience at any show, irrespective of the venue.

A Moment of Pride and History

Responding through a text to the Covington News, the principal of Newton High, Dr. Shannon Buff, expressed immense pride in the Sound Factory's remarkable experience, considering it a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The performance was not just a demonstration of talent but also a representation of their school and community. Smith himself reminded his students of the historical significance of their performance before taking the stage, urging them to enjoy and appreciate the moment where they were practically performing 'for the world.'

event, music, honor