The JP Stevens Band hosted its annual winter concert at 7 p.m. on December 13 in the auditorium. This event consisted of pieces from various ensembles, including the Freshman Band, Wind Ensemble, a selective band by audition, and the Symphonic Band. As the auditorium slowly started to fill up with eager families and students, the band rehearsed on stage, directed by Mr. John Zazzali, Mr. Raymond Henricksen, and Ms. Pamela Ferrali. As a new director, this was Mr. Henricksen’s first concert here at JPS.

The JPS Band’s skill and professionalism were evident as they took the stage. To start the concert, the Symphonic Band, directed by Mr. Henricksen, played their three pieces. The first magical piece played was “Fantasy on a Burgundian Carol (Patapan)”, arranged by Michael Story. This piece embodied the holiday spirit and was an uplifting piece for all to enjoy. It certainly felt like walking through a magical world. Then, the musicians played the celebratory piece, “The Festival of Hanukkah” by Lennie Niehaus. This piece, true to its name, was very festive and joyful. To conclude their set, the Symphonic Band performed the exciting piece, “Ukrainian Bell Carol” arranged by Richard Saucedo. It was a very energetic piece that had the audience on the edge of their seats.

“The concert was filled with festiveness and joy,” said sophomore Saharsh Penugonda. “Practicing was stressful at the beginning but when we played on stage, the hard work everyone put in paid off.” 

Before the Freshman Band entered, a small student-led brass quartet played their songs. The Freshman Band followed with their festive tunes. The first was “The Rhythms of Christmas” by Frank Erickson, directed by Mr. Zazzali. Then the band performed, “Christmas Troika”, guest directed by Ms. Ferrali. Their final song was the medley, “The Polar Express”, arranged by Paul Lavender and directed by Mr. Henricksen.

Before Mr. Zazzali directed the Wind Ensemble for their performance, he congratulated the 30 members who made it into the Regions Band––a highly selective band which students audition for. After this heart-felt commendation, the Wind Ensemble performed their set, starting with five movements from “Suite from the Nutcracker” by Peter Tchaikovsky, which was an extremely whimsical song that transported everyone to the world of the “Nutcracker”. After that performance, the band played, “A Chanukah Celebration” by David Bobrowitz and Kenneth Soper. The band then played a song made of several holiday carols but in minor keys. This hauntingly beautiful song is called “Minor Alterations” by David Lovrein, which caused an eerie feeling to circulate throughout the auditorium. To conclude the musical evening, the Wind Ensemble performed the highly anticipated “Sleigh Ride” by Leroy Anderson, inviting alumni to join them on stage. 

Overall, this was a fulfilling first concert for Mr. Henricksen and an enchanting experience for all in attendance. Everyone who went to the concert expected a magical evening and walked away with the memories of an exceptional concert.