The 8th-grade orchestra performed “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Their performance was particularly moving, though this song has been a classic during Black History Month. But, did you know? The song originated from Key, a Maryland attorney and slaveholder, who wrote the lyrics after witnessing the American flag flying over Fort McHenry during the War of 1812. This song was arranged for a string orchestra by Jessie Montgomery, a composer and violinist, who created an encouraging tone and hopeful melody through classical and modern elements. In recognition of Black History Month, it’s a reminder of the continuous battle for equality and the significance of recognizing diversity, which Martin Luther King Jr. fought for. 

“In this time period where we’re in, everything is upheaval in the United States. I think that [the song represents] trying to get ourselves back together, we’re a country, we’re together, and we can do this,” Orchestra teacher Mrs. Wharton said.

The eighth-grade orchestra performed “Freedom Rhapsody.” Their performance radiates optimism through the quick segments while slower parts portray a mournful tone. But, did you know? The historical context of Freedom Rhapsody references the Big Dipper, a large asterism. Back in the slave era, slaves had secretive songs that they played which meant something that only they knew. “Freedom Rhapsody” was a reserved song that expresses if you followed the Big Dipper you would find the Underground Railroad which led the slaves to freedom. Today, it is divided into four meanings and sections, The Yearning to Be Free, Anticipation, Reflection, and Celebration. 

“I could see how well the piece was written, showing the journey of African Americans as they escaped slavery, I could see which parts of the story lined up with sections of music in the piece,” eighth-grader Angela Cho said.

The Jazz Band performed “The Preacher.”  Their performance used a blend of R&B, gospel, and blues to tell the story of MLK. But, did you know? 

“MLK was a preacher, and that was an important part of who he was, and we wanted to highlight and respect that,” Band teacher Mr. Paustian said. 

MLK also had a deep admiration for jazz music, seeing it as it can express the triumphs and struggles of the experience of African Americans when words cannot. Jazz music has been a staple since slavery, modern musicians brought it back and made it an immense deal for people of color to hear jazz music. So, when stories are told through jazz, many will be able to relate to MLK and The Civil Rights Movement which fought for peace. 

“Music connects with telling a story because, through each segment, I can envision a story, sort of like a revolution, by the end [of the song], it finishes with freedom,” eighth-grader Mark Victoria said.

The eighth-grade Band performed “As Winds Dance.” Their performance was described as a breezy, freeing, and upbeat tune. But, did you know? MLK promoted freedom and unity, he worked towards this dream by being a prominent leader in the 20th-century struggle for civil rights. The Civil Rights Movement worked towards ending segregation, restoring voting rights for African Americans, and ending legal discrimination, these goals were accomplished through nonviolent resistance. MLK encouraged diversity to the best he could, “As Winds Dance,” preserved and serves as a reminder of his work and legacy. Though the goal was directed at African Americans, everyone of every race could take away Dr. King’s focus on nonviolent peacebuilding and favoring harmonious solutions instead.  

“ I don’t think the song represents an event but rather symbolizes his mission and message. Wind changes and is unpredictable. MLK wanted to promote a positive change, and yet, the events were sometimes unpredictable,”  seventh-grade English teacher, Mrs. Durham said. 

Eighth-grade Avid students presented A Picture Book of Martin Luther King, Jr. by David A. Adler and illustrated by Robert Casilla. This picture book portrayed MLK’s life as a child to his assassination. But, did you know? Throughout his life, he endured racism, the illustrations created a story itself, showing how many people supported him and were against him. Picture books can be understood and interpreted differently by all people, but, to everybody, the pictures help understand the importance of accepting diversity and fighting for justice. The presentation highlighted key moments like his segregation through his childhood, the Montgomery bus boycott, the 1963 March on Washington, and his message of nonviolent resistance. 

“The pictures convey Dr. King's message of peace and equality because not one page or picture shows MLK using violence in any way to protest. Instead, he peacefully protested which resulted in huge outcomes,” seventh-grader Joshua Fufa said.

Eighth-grader, Mankirat Kaur created and presented a video showing MLK’s legacy. The video displayed what MLK Day meant, how MLK changed the world, and his experience facing racism. But, did you know? The video conveyed the voices of students, giving students an opportunity to learn about MLK’s legacy and allowing them to experience and incorporate it in their way for younger generations to understand. People constantly endure racism, and it never fully ends. Students are more aware of these issues and can interpret them with modern discrimination and how MLK’s legacy can still be exercised, better than older generations can. The video represents scholar’s opinions and perspectives, as well as what stands out to them.

 “I believe that diverse perspectives and experiences can enrich the understanding of any subject. I hope the presentations sparked students’ interest in doing their own research,” eighth-grade resource teacher Ms. White said.