“Hello! My name is Mary Mancini Tacca. I was born in Peekskill, attended Assumption School (K-8) and have been a parishioner of Assumption Church all my life. Along with the Franciscan Sisters and Assumption Priests, my parents set the best example for me by their devotion to God, their constant faith and teaching the importance of attending Church on a regular basis. My desire to be part of the Assumption “family” began during those early school years – I helped out in the sacristy every Friday, cleaning candle holders and doing whatever else was needed. Eventually, I was elected President of the Sodality of Mary and was asked to join the choir at age 11. This allowed me to be part of all the musical shows that took place on the stage of what is now Father Wilson Hall. I knew early on that God had blessed me with the gift of music! When I “grew up,” I went to work in the legal department of IBM at its T.J. Watson Research Center. At the same time, I began studying vocal music and eight languages under private tutelage in New York City, studies which spanned over 20 years! After about ten years of studies, realizing the strength of my gift, I took the leap and devoted myself to music fulltime. My concert and show work is ongoing; I’ve performed throughout the USA, Canada, Europe and even twice in the People’s Republic of China. As Coordinator of Music at Assumption, cantoring two Masses every weekend and singing for funerals and weddings, I continue expanding my music repertoire – and I love every minute of it! In addition to my music ministry, I’ve been the chairperson of Assumption’s Events Committee for 25 years. I truly enjoy both putting on events in the parish and working with fellow parishioners on the committee. (And we’re always looking for volunteers!) I am doubly blessed to be able to work with my husband, Mario Tacca, who not only is an organist at Assumption but is also a world champion accordionist. We’ve been making beautiful music together for 41 years, recording ten CDs during that time as well as producing three marvelous children and eight precious grandchildren! I am so grateful to be part of Assumption and most grateful for God’s plan over my life – He has given me the gift of music and I am driven to gift it back to Him.”