By Robert Ortiz, Staff Writer
The winter choir concert concluded this past Tuesday, and with the holiday break just around the corner, the performers have reflected on their improvement and how the choir experience has allowed them to embrace the festivities and celebrations of the holiday season.
The winter choir concert happens every year before the holiday break. Unlike the previous concert (the Prism concert in the fall), which included each musical department, the winter choir concert only included the three choir groups: Chamber Choir, Vocal Ensemble, and Concert Choir. Each choir typically performs three musical pieces, one of which follows the theme of the holiday season.
The winter choir concert gives parents and students the opportunity to enjoy the choral sound at its best. Sophomore Subat Begzad, member of the chamber choir, said that “the Prism Concert had more of an emphasis on the other parts of music,” adding that “this one was just choir.”
The winter concert allowed singers to sing to their fullest extent, with ample preparation for the selected musical pieces. The pieces “Singabahambayo” and “Rise Up My Love” were practiced heavily ahead of the concert. Freshman Max Cedars, bass for the concert choir, reinforced Begzad’s statement, mentioning that “to sing more repertoire meant that our focus level was increased.”
Along with the chance to sing a repertoire of music, the timing of the winter concert allows for the perfect opportunity to spread holiday cheer in the form of music. Begzad said that “at the end, we all did one piece, “Carol of the Bells,” which is a staple of winter choir.”
Senior Mizuki Ohtani, alto and tenor for chamber choir, supported Begzad, stating that “pieces like ‘Carol of the Bells,’ especially when all the choirs sing together, create a sense of excitement and warmth.” The winter concert allows singers to perform beloved holiday songs in front of their families and peers.
For many singers, the concert was also a chance to reflect on the progress they’ve made since the start of the year. Cedars also noticed improvements in his piano skills when he played piano for the Chamber Choir’s Afternoon on a Hill. Cedars said, “Not only have I increased my singing skills in a section, but I’ve also increased my ability to play piano.”
Comparably, Ohtani mentioned that she “felt especially proud while leading the choral tradition as the annual choir dog.” A choir dog is a tradition in which one, typically a departing senior, guides the choir in the moments before their performances, where everyone comes together to support and encourage one another. Ohtani also shared that this experience was inspiring “to see everyone respond with smiles and laughter.”
Begzad added to Ohtani’s leadership experience, “I like being with other members of the choir, and then it feels really good to perform. It’s like a culmination of everything,” he said. Each choir member has the opportunity to support their peers in a night of festivities before winter break.
The winter concert is, without doubt, a memorable experience for all who attend it. Ohtani ended by saying, “The winter concert allows the choir to connect with the community, share music that resonates with the audience, and create cherished moments together.”
The music, refined and polished, was a great way to spread holiday cheer as students transitioned into winter break.