On December 18, the auditorium was filled with enthusiasm and anticipation as families and friends began arriving to watch the annual winter choir concert. Led by Mr. Lee and Ms. McElroy, the concert featured multiple ensembles, including Concert Choir, Tenor-Bass Choir, Treble Choir, Harmonix, Chamber Ensemble, and A Cappella Ensemble.
The audience barely contained their excitement as the Concert Choir began the concert with “Vuelie” by Christopher Beck and Frode Fjelheim, a classic Frozen opening song, inspired by Sami yoiking, a traditional song from the indigenous Saami people of Northern Europe. Students then performed “I’m Building Me a Home” arranged by Anthony Trecek-King, a traditional tune. The audience applauded as the ensemble ended their performance with a medley of two traditional South African praise songs, “Tshela Moya/Ke nna yo Morena”, arranged by Michael Barrett.
“The overall performance was great, and the choir performed very well,” said sophomore Aarohi Pandit. “They showed good dynamics and etiquette throughout the concert, and the audience was truly engaged in the performances.”
Following the Concert Choir, the Tenor-Bass Choir presented “The Light We Cannot See” by Brian A. Foy, leaving the audience with a warm heart. The next song the students performed was “Lost In the Woods” by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, a soft rock ballad featured in Disney’s Frozen 2. After the Tenor-Bass Choir finished their performance, the Treble Choir started their performance with “Durme Durme” arranged by Alice Parker, a Jewish traditional Ladino lullaby. After presenting such a soothing melody, the audience enjoyed “Vichten” arranged by Hart Rouge, a high energy Acadian folk song. Furthermore, the Harmonix performed “American Requiem” by Beyonce, a folk-rock epic inspired by the 60s and 70s rock.
Keeping up with the energy of the audience, the Chamber Ensemble staged “The Word Was God” by Rosephayne Powell, a sacred choral anthem. Secondly, the crowd adored a contemporary classical piece, “Stopping By Woods on a Snowy Evening” by Eric Whitacre. Their third performance was “S’vivon” by Steve Barnett, a Hanukkah tune based on traditional Hebrew folk melody. Finally, the students presented the Christmas classic, “A Holly Jolly Christmas” arranged by Kirby Shaw.
As the night progressed, the A Cappella Ensemble took the stage with “By Night” by Elaine Hagenberg, a driving secular musical piece. Continuing their performance, they showcased “Where the Light Begins” by Susan LaBarr, a popular and steady melody. As the night went on, the students brought “The Unexpected Early Hour” by Reena Esmail, a vibrant blend of Western tunes and Indian classical music to the stage. Lastly, the ensemble ended their performance with “Dawn” by Daniel Schreiner, an optimistic and hopeful harmony. As the concert drew to a close, the Concert Choir lifted the spirits by performing a Christmas carol, “Carol of the Bells” arranged by Peter Wilhousky. Overall, the winter choir concert was a huge success, leaving the audience with anticipation for their upcoming events.