Long Island choir prepares for Vatican performance

The Glen Cove High School Select Chorale performed for President Obama at the White House two years ago. Now this group is rehearsing for their international debut in Rome. It includes singing with the Sistine Chapel Choir during a Mass at the Vatican led by Pope Francis.

The 43-member group leaves New Year's Day. The trip that was originally $2,900 a person is now $900 less thanks to over $40,000 in fundraising. They'll be doing five masses showcasing music from the 14th and 15th Centuries. The choir was one of the only public schools invited. They received special permission from the Vatican. The trip will signify many firsts for Director Edward Norris, who has never traveled out of the country.

Aside from singing, the group has several stops planned including visiting Ancient Rome, the Coliseum and walking through the Holy Door at the Vatican - opened by Pope Francis for the first since 2000 - making the trip even more special.