The Dec. 17 Winter Concert was the first to be located in the newly constructed auditorium.
After months of rehearsals, including practicing in both small sectionals and as a whole group, the choir, orchestra, band, and jazz band were all set to perform. The choir performed four songs: “Vuelie,” “Zephyr,” “Ad Astra,” and the “Time of My Life.” The orchestra performed “Cherry Tree,” “From the Start,” and “Waltz No. 2.” The jazz band played “What a Wonderful World,” and the band played “Zip Line,” “Ancient Flower,” “Tapestry of the Sky,” and the entire ensemble performed “Jurassic Park” and David Bowie altogether.
Sophomore orchestra member Elizabeth Zhou spoke to the significance of the Winter Concert.
“The Winter Concert is our first performance of the school year, and it’s pretty important to start off the year on a good note,” said Zhou.
The new auditorium offers more space for the ensemble, which includes band, orchestra, and choir, to practice.
Senior Hannah Lau, who was in the orchestra from her freshman year to her junior year, witnessed the transition from the old auditorium to the new one and the difficulties that came with it. She added that in addition to the auditorium being closed for half a year, the ensemble had to move out of their band room.
“We were moved to this tiny, cramped room that, because we were so rushed in moving all the sheet music and equipment and instruments out of the old band room, was filled with so much stuff that we had to tiptoe just to not trip on anything,” said Lau. “It definitely wasn’t the best time for the orchestra.”
As well as the larger performing space, members at the concert were also able to take advantage of the newly constructed lightboards and the new sound system to enhance their performances. Senior Georgiana Isaac is part of the lights tech team, making her personally acquainted with the auditorium’s new features.
“The lights system is much better and we can do special effects with light now that we couldn’t before, which is cool,” said Isaac.
Students, teachers, and their families were all welcome to attend the concert, and admission was free. With expanded auditorium seating options that can fit a larger audience, the concert saw many in attendance.
“The turnout was really good,” said Isaac. “I think it was even better than previous years. The auditorium was filled with people.”
The concert showcased talent and set the stage for countless ensemble performances to follow in the new auditorium.
“I hope the audience enjoyed the music and had a good time, but also saw that we’ve put a lot of dedication and effort into putting this together,” said Zhou. “Having our concert in the new auditorium is a brand new experience for all of us.”
