Preview of the talent performing at the White House's annual Governor's Ball

First Lady Michelle Obama welcomed the Myrtilla Miner Elementary School Glee Club to the White House Sunday afternoon to preview Grammy award-winning musician Harry Connick, Jr., who would perform later that night at the annual Governor's Ball.

"This year our entertainment is a good friend to the White House," Obama told the crowd of about 30 students. "He's someone who's worked tirelessly to bring back New Orleans [from Hurricane Katrina]."

Mrs. Obama was dressed in a black high-waisted skirt and cardigan combination, and joked that she would wear white at the ball later on.

A New Orleans native, Connick was accompanied by members of The Musician's Village, a concept that Connick, Jr. created where homes were rebuilt for many of the areas displaced artists who shaped the city's culture.  After introducing each of his fellow band members, Connick reminded the audience that, "No matter how bad times are, music can get you through."

Among the rousing numbers played on stage was the Big Easy's unofficial anthem, "When the Saints Go Marching In," followed by the glee club performance of the Motown favorite "Heat Wave."

— Report and photographs by Kate Oczypok

Performing "When the Saints Go Marching In," in honor of New Orleans Saints Super Bowl win. Derrick Hopkins, Jr. volunteered to get on stage to sing with Harry Connick, Jr.

The First Lady asks children if they are excited to be there.

Harry Connick, Jr. talks to the children.

Performing for the children

Mrs. Obama thanks teachers, glee club leaders and children for coming.

Performing

White House social secretary Desiree Rogers chats with a White House staffer

Children gathered for group shot with Mrs. Obama at end of event