Bridgewater Seniors Enjoy Valentine's Tea Party With Middle School Orchestra

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Orchestra students from Bridgewater-Raritan Middle School recently performed at the Bridgewater Township Senior Center on Feb. 13, during a Valentine’s Tea Party event.

Eight middle school orchestra students, accompanied by their teachers Caty Butler and Tim Nuzzetti, participated in the lunchtime activity. Jennifer Osterberg, the Senior Citizen Program Coordinator for the Bridgewater Township Senior Center, helped organize the concert.

Osterberg noted that this was the first time the students had played for the center. She expressed enthusiasm for their performance and extended an invitation for them to return for next year’s Valentine’s Day Tea Party. The annual Valentine’s Day party is a collaboration with Parker Life.

"For the past several years, we’ve been partnering with Parker Life to host a Valentine’s Tea Party for our members. This event is an opportunity to pause from our regular schedule and enjoy each other’s company in a lovely setting, strengthening friendships and remembering the special people in our lives. It’s a great opportunity for those who are lonely to come and feel special on a day such as Valentine’s Day," she said.

For the tea party, Parker Life provides tea sandwiches and fruit. Bridgewater Township supplies delicate desserts to enhance the tablescape. Osterberg said that real teacups are used to add an extra special touch.

"We want our members to feel refreshed in their souls when they leave this event, and hearing the orchestra music from the students was a perfect way to do just that! The piano solos were phenomenal, and the string ensembles were delightful! Our members receive joy from watching young people succeed in their endeavors," said Osterberg.

The students who performed were Anh Dang Vu, Vivian Gu, Misha Patel, Audrey Zhang, Sophia Wang, Sanjeetha Santhoshkumar, Riya Singh, and Katy Li.