BY OLIVIA VAN DEURSEN
On December 12, the Choir held their annual Winter Concert. The featured holiday carols spread holiday cheer and showcased diverse vocal talent.
Students sang a variety of performances, including group, duet, and solo pieces. Joaquin Rivera and Madison Caroll sang a duet of “Rocking Around the Christmas Tree.” “It felt really good and exciting,” commented Rivera. “It was a lot of fun.”
Many freshmen made their debuts with solo performances. “I was very nervous at first, but as soon as I started singing, the nerves went away,” shared freshman Ella Kuhn, who performed solo pieces on “This Christmas” and “Santa Clause is Coming to Town.”
The concert had a prominent focus on a form of singing without instrumentals known as “a capella.” “It was fun, and I think it sounded better without any backing track,” said sophomore Krysten Cotangco, who sang a solo on “Underneath the Tree.”
The larger focus on a capella required substantial preparation. “This year, our repertoire was mostly a capella, which was a lot more difficult because it requires more focus and practice,” senior Meghan Valanzola explained. “We prepared in class, and some days we stayed after school to rehearse as a whole.”
Four different choir classes combined to perform together in the show. “We worked really hard to learn the notes and songs in our separate classes,” shared Jenna Wilkinson. “Then, we had a bunch of after school rehearsals with all the different classes brought together to solidify everything.”
The choir also continued the tradition of inviting alumni choir members to join in the holiday caroling. “It’s super special to see who comes back and reflect on years past but also appreciate the present and work on special pieces each year,” said Valanzola.
The concert successfully spread holiday cheer among the OBHS community. “Music can spread cheer and uplift the soul, and especially during the holiday season,” expressed sophomore Elizabeth Barnett. “I’d say that was our goal, and people seeing us have a good time singing and having fun probably brought them joy.”
Posted on 1/17/25
Photos by Olivia Van Deuersen
Knight Life 