The yearly Holiday Concert held by the LHS Jazz and Concert Band and Chorus is always a highlight during the holiday season. Every December they put on a show for all the elementary schools, inspiring the next generation of band and chorus members.
“It puts me in a festive mood and gets me excited for the upcoming holiday break,” said Northern third grade teacher Amy Shunney. “The kids at the elementary school always seem to enjoy it.”
The LHS Jazz and Concert band, orchestrated by band teacher David Enos, performed a marathon of shows for the elementary school kids during the week of the 9th. They also performed that Sunday for the public and twice again on Friday for the LHS students.
“In a month you have to prepare a whole holiday concert, with all new style and music,” said Enos.
The LHS Jazz and Concert band performed the shows in a span of two weeks. Quickly shifting from football and parade centered music was a tough feat on its own, but with a majority of underclassmen in the band, it makes the holiday concert cycle in this year particularly difficult.
The elementary school concerts played holiday classics for the young kids. Students loved songs like Jingle Bell Rock, Last Christmas, and Christmas at the Movies, a medley of famous melodies from Christmas movies. The Chorus also was a big hit. Their performances of songs like Last Christmas were highlights. The elementary schools each took field trips to come watch the performers throughout last week, and the highly anticipated show exceeded expectations.
Teachers working at elementary schools especially look forward to the yearly concerts, as they provide the unique opportunity for teachers to watch former students.
“This show was phenomenal,” said Northern third grade teacher Jamie Lareau. “I loved how every student had the opportunity to attend and how this is something they look forward to every school year.”
This yearly tradition has been running for over thirty years, and means the most for former teachers. Northern third grade teacher Kristin Schmiedeknecht put it best: “The music is wonderful, but seeing former students grown up and showcasing their talents, it makes my heart so full.”
