The sounds of the season echoed through the Greeley Auditorium on December 19th, as students gathered for the school’s annual winter assembly. Chorus, orchestra, band, and several other music groups took the stage to perform a festive selection of holiday music, filling the auditorium with energy and joy.

The orchestra’s rendition of “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” was a standout moment. Its performance was flawless. There was also another fun little twist! Later, recently retired librarian Ms. Schembri added to one of the performances using a typewriter as a form of percussion. Many students said that it was their favorite part of the show.

Mr. Walker, the chorus teacher, explained the careful process behind his song selection. “I picked songs that are multicultural and would cover a variety of backgrounds,” he said. “So [music] in the theme of the holiday spirit, that are popular, that everyone knows, but also that would push the chorus to better themselves as singers.” In picking these songs, he ensured that their performances were inclusive and challenging for his students. This way, the chorus members were able to celebrate the holidays while improving as singers.

One of the band students, who asked to remain anonymous, spoke about their rehearsal process, “Rehearsals leading up to the concert were super tough,” she said. She said that classes were spent perfecting harmonies and tempos. “It was super fun, but also felt tedious sometimes. But it was all worthwhile, since the performances went so well.”

Beyond showcasing the skills of our Performing Arts Department, it was also a celebration of community. The audience was very lively afterward and the halls were filled with excitement. The showcase reminded us once again that the season is not just about music, but about coming together to create memories that will last.