Lawrence Lately

Uniting at the winter musical spectacular

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Following a restful winter recess, the Lawrence High School Music Department entered 2019 with one objective, our annual winter concert. Orchestra, band and chorus members alike resumed work on their respective selections of music, guided by Lawrence High’s wonderful music instructors.

Family, friends, and administrators gathered in the high school auditorium for a winter music spectacular on Jan. 14. With sentiments of nervousness and excitement, the various performing groups took to the stage.

The orchestra under the direction of Terrence Batts opened the show with glimmering vibrancy. Their program began with Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” arranged by Larry Moore, their following selection was, “Farandole” created by George Bizet and arranged by Merle Issac. The orchestra closed their performance with the majestic piece, “King Arthur” by the legendary Hans Zimmer, and arranged by Batts. The orchestra’s stunning performance was augmented by students, such as electric bassist David Monroy-Berganza and percussionists Sarafina Jean, Maverick Martinez and Jordanian Sidlow.

The chorus was next in line to grace the stage, arranging themselves fluidly, they soon began their serenade, directed by Thomas Riley, with the accompaniment of Brian Stabile on piano. They began their performance with “Thula Klizeo” written by Joseph Shabalala, and arranged by Leanne Macdonnell, and continued their program with Brian Tate’s “Hold Me, Rock Me.” The end of their performance was nothing short of divine, as they sang “Jordan’s Angels” by Rollo A. Dilworth. The participation of Lawrence senior Josh Gonzalez on drums and teacher Alan Katz on bass, helped perfect this performance.

Brian Stabile’s band, were the final performing group of the evening, closing the show in style. “Encanto” by Robert W. Smith ignited their dynamic performance, and featured soloists Autumn Taylor on flute, Hayden Metz on alto saxophone and Elijah DeNicolo on trumpet. Their next piece, “Havana” arranged by Matt Conaway transported audience members to the sun and warmth of the Caribbean in the midst of a frosty New York winter. The band concluded the show magnificently with the piece, “Solstice Dance” by Jack Wilds.

The months of practice, extra help sessions, rehearsals and auditions paid off, as each performance group was awarded with thunderous applause. The winter concert was a smashing success, and was the perfect way for student to have some fun before midterm exams and the start of the second semester.

For many students at Lawrence High School music is a vehicle for expression. In orchestra, chorus and band classes, students can release their stress about having the right answers or formulating the correct calculations.

The only worry is making beautiful music with their friends and instructors. At Lawrence High, music unites everyone, gathering families, friends, instructors and administrators together, for laughs and moments that are simply irreplaceable.