Musical performances bring the joy back

Hewlett High School was the center of music for the Hewlett-Woodmere School District, with concerts for the elementary, middle and high school students and bringing excitement to the community in December.

The music ensembles have been preparing for the concerts since the start of the school year in September.

Students rehearsed in their classes each day, practicing with their beloved music teachers. Concerts provided the opportunity to display their musical progress and share the musical spirit.

There were two high school winter concerts, along with separate concerts for the elementary and middle school students.

Winter Concert I included performances from the string orchestra, mixed chorus, chamber orchestra, and concert chorale. Winter Concert II included even more performances from the concert band, wind ensemble and the treble choir.

A broad range of musical genres were on display, from “Elijah Rock” by the concert chorale to “A Hymn for the Lost and Living” in honor of those who died in 9/11 by the wind ensemble.

Several holiday songs were also performed during the elementary and middle school concerts as the perfect way to incorporate the holiday cheer.

Those involved in the general music classes also had their work on display. Videos of handbell performances and “Fur Elise” remixes were shown.

The concerts were long awaited events for the Hewlett-Woodmere communities. It had been two years since the last concert took place due to the coronavirus pandemic, leaving many looking forward to its return this school year.

“Returning from the pandemic to the stage once more with my fellow musicians has made such an impact on my school and district as a whole,” said Cory Easterling, a Hewlett High senior and concert chorale member.

The Hewlett-Woodmere Music and Arts Department aimed to maintain safety precautions throughout the excitement of concerts. Students wore special masks to prevent the spread of the virus when playing their instruments and were socially distanced while singing.

Due to the limited capacity of the auditorium, livestreams were broadcast online. For those who couldn’t make it in person, the livestreams provided access to the students’ performances, with more than 40 people watching.

Students like Easterling are grateful for the opportunity to practice music in school and will carry on these skills to the future.

“With this being my remarkable fourth and last year in chorale, I must say that I am privileged to have witnessed and have taken part in something so preeminent to the music department this past winter concert,” Easterling said. “It is noted that we have not only made music, but we have started a movement. As a student and soon to be alumni of Hewlett High School, I am super blessed and excited to see where my gift will lead me next!”

Thank you to the Hewlett-Woodmere Music Department led by Dr. Andrew Fund and all of the music teachers who contributed to the creation of these marvelous performances.