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St. Paul
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Washington Tech's Dan Perelstein Wins Manilow Music Project Award

A student holding a bassoon stands and smiles at his teacher in a backyard setting
Students on stage in all black playing a band concert with teacher conducting in front

As part of his 2024 U.S. concert tour, legendary singer and songwriter Barry Manilow is giving back to high school music programs in 17 cities, including St. Paul. Five Saint Paul Public Schools music teachers were nominated to receive $5,000 of new instruments for their classroom, a $5,000 cash prize, and an opportunity to meet Manilow backstage when he performs at the Xcel Energy Center on Aug. 2.

A student holding a bassoon stands and smiles at his teacher in a backyard setting

Dan Perelstein, the band, orchestra and guitar teacher at Washington Technology Magnet High School, received the most votes and won the St. Paul award.

"I want to extend a BIG THANK YOU to all of my friends and family that voted for me, along with the amazing teachers, staff and students at Washington Technology Magnet School in the St. Paul Public Schools," he said. "Although I don’t know all of the teachers on the Top 10 list, the ones that I do know are phenomenal and inspiring teachers."

The other SPPS teachers who were nominated were:

  • Jennifer Greupner, Harding High School
  • Todd Hanlon-Alle, Johnson High School
  • Jeremy Barnes, Humboldt High School
  • Matthew Oyen, Central High School

To date, the Manilow Music Project has gifted more than $10 million in instruments and scholarships to music students and teachers throughout the United States. Perelstein will receive his award in a special backstage ceremony at the concert.