As finals week draws to a close and the fall semester comes to an end, the school welcomes winter break with the annual Winter Concert, ending the year off on a high note. Last night, on Wednesday, the auditorium was alive with festive cheer as Marshall’s musicians performed for an audience of family and friends. Several of John Marshall’s music groups took to the auditorium stage to play various Christmas-themed songs and carols, having practiced for weeks in preparation for the event.
The Marshall Rock Band, Beginning Guitar Classes, Choir, Beginning Orchestra, Marshall Orchestra, Beginning Jazz Band, and the Marshall Jazz Band all made an appearance, having played around 2–3 songs each.
I had the privilege of being a member and performing with the Marshall Orchestra as a violist, playing with my peers the songs Joy to the World, Voilà Violas, and Frosty the Snowman. Tensions were high among the orchestra and many were nervous. The Concert Leader for Orchestra, Catherine, had some reservations, “I’m nervous and stressed,” she said, “But I will try my best.”
We successfully powered through the performance and delivered, earning cheer and applause from the crowd. Andy, a guitarist who performed before us, had this to say about his performance, “It was the most memorable 3 minutes of my lifetime.”
The overall songs were received well, and the audience was very supportive of our music groups. Luis, one such audience member, had a very positive experience. “The choir was beautiful, overall I would say it was fun. I appreciate their dedication especially! I hope to hear more from everyone!” He complimented. The Choir and Beginner Guitar classes, headed by Mr. Van Wagner, were especially well liked.
Most of the musicians on stage were instructed and organized by the very passionate Music teacher, Mr. Ramirez of room 600. The Marshall Rock Band, both Orchestra classes, and both Jazz classes were taught by Mr. Ramirez, the Winter Concert being the culmination of his and his student’s efforts. A generation of musicians raised by a single man. When asked about his final thoughts on the concert, Mr. Ramirez said, “It was an amazing evening of music for our Orchestra, Jazz, Rock Band, Choir, and Beginning Guitar classes. The crowd was nice, and the students had an amazing experience.”
Thanks should also be given to the good stage staff of John Marshall and Mr. Boyd. The students of stage and production worked hard to set up the platform for our school’s concert. Adam Lopez, a helper and member of the class, commented, “We love to do our job for the people who want to put on shows. That is the purpose of our group. ‘We build great shows’ is our motto.”
With the success of this year’s Winter Concert, John Marshall’s music program continues to inspire and bring joy to its community, with many looking forward to the next shows to come.
