holiday tunes

The lights dimmed and the spotlight shined on the Jazz Band as they gracefully played their opening piece, “Winter Wonderland.” The “Holidays and Palm Trees” concert took place on Friday, Dec. 9, where the Music Department showcased their talent.

“The holiday concert always has a special atmosphere, warmth. and holiday flavor because of the music chosen. Our students love performing Christmas and Hanukkah pieces and really pour their hearts and souls out to share the joy of seasonal music. This makes the holiday concert that much more special,” orchestra teacher Mari Liis Calloway said.

Students practiced for the holiday concert since the beginning of the school year, both in class and at home.

“We started learning the pieces in the second week of school, and since then, we have been practicing every class period. Outside of school I practice for 20 minutes every day,” freshman Sophia Harari said.

While some of the newer students felt anxious, the more experienced musicians demonstrated excitement and confidence while playing.

“I have been playing for a long time, and since I practice harder repertoire outside of school, it makes the school repertoire come pretty easily. Also, I have done it 100 times in class, so I am excited, not nervous,” junior Owen Norton said.

The concert had a jazz vocal ensemble for the first time ever, and it ended with a special performance from all three ensembles where they sang “Like It’s Christmas” by the Jonas Brothers.

“It was very exciting to see all of the students come together and perform one song,” Calloway said.