Billy Joel Makes Surprise Appearance at Elementary School Tribute Concert

Glen Cove's Deasy Elementary School, located in Long Island, had a surprise visitor when they presented their RIVER OF DREAMS Billy Joel Tribute concert earlier this week - Billy Joel himself.

According to Newsday, the iconic musician snuck in five minutes before the curtain went up on the students' show, which highlighted Joel's catalogue.

"We invited Billy Joel on a lark, but we didn't expect him to come. It was totally thrilling," Nomi Rosen, the school's principal told the publication. "We were all beside ourselves."

Deasy is located just five minutes from Joel's home, a relatively easy trip that prompted parents and students to launch a Facebook and letter-writing campaign in hopes of getting his attention.

"I found out two minutes before the concert started that he was here and it totally freaked me out. My nerves went sky-high," admitted Rosita Mallo, concert director and music teacher. "This was a very welcomed surprise. It gave the kids extra energy to perform."

For Newday's full coverage, click here.

Billy Joel is one of the highest grossing touring artists in the world. Having sold more than 150 million records over the past quarter century, Joel ranks as one of most popular recording artists and respected entertainers in history. The singer/songwriter/composer is the sixth best-selling recording artist of all time and the third best-selling solo artist. Joel received The Kennedy Center Honors, one of the United States' top cultural awards, in December 2013. Joel performed at the historic 12-12-12, The Concert For Sandy Relief, joining other music greats to raise awareness and money to help those affected by Hurricane Sandy. He has received six GRAMMY® Awards, including the prestigious Grammy Legend Award. He has been inducted into the Songwriter's Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and has received numerous industry awards. His music has also served as the inspiration and score for the hit Tony Award-winning Broadway play "Movin' Out."

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