This past week, the school’s music department hosted their annual “WinterFest,” bringing our Vocal, Orchestral, and Band departments to the stage for a week of melodic festivities. 

On Monday, December 16, the bold and triumphant sounds of the Concert and Symphonic band hit the stage. The Concert Band with their thrilling songs, “Suspended Animation,” “Syzygy,” “Stay,” and “Los Madres de los Gatos.” The Symphonic band played, “Cenotaph,” “American Elegy,” and “Danzón no. 2.”

Wednesday, December 18, we were graced with the voices of the PAVE Vocal Ensemble, the Vocal Ensemble, and Chorale. PAVE sang six different songs in various languages while Chorale sang their songs, “Time,” “Non Nobis, Domine,” “Wolcum Yole!,” and “Season of Light.” The Vocale Ensemble performed three songs, “In December,” “Into the West,” and “Can You Hear.”

Finally, on Thursday, December 19, the Symphonic orchestra harnessed the brilliance of Benjamin Britten and his symphony. They played the first three movements titled, “Simple Symphony,” “Playful Pizzicato,” and “Sentimental Sarabande.” They also performed “Overture from Romeo and Juliet.” The Huguenot Orchestra played the festive and upbeat songs, “Carol of the Bells,” “Russian Sailor’s Dance,” and “Dance of the Tumblers.”

Each concert had its own unique sound, from the dramatic blasts of horns to gentle sounds of the chorus. In that light, the music department has affected the lives of countless students throughout its years, especially following the introduction of the PAVE program in 1999. Following the concert, sophomore choral student Juliana LoPresti talked about her experience so far, saying, “It has given me the opportunity to meet and perform alongside new and amazing people, and it has allowed me to gain confidence in self-performance.” 

This school year has been notable for New Rochelle High School within the music community after they hosted the New York State School Music Association’s Area All-State music rehearsals and concerts  and will be hosting the upcoming All-County rehearsals and performances in February 2025.