On June 6th, 2024, Saint Thomas More Collegiate hosted its annual Music Banquet, bringing together students from the music department for a delightful evening. The event featured a communal dinner where students socialized and celebrated their shared passion for music. Highlighting the night, band teacher Mrs. MacLellan presented awards to outstanding students, recognizing their dedication and achievements throughout the year. The atmosphere was filled with camaraderie and pride, reflecting the strong sense of community within the music program. The banquet was a memorable occasion, honoring both the students' hard work and the supportive spirit of the department.
The Spring Junior Music Night at Saint Thomas More Collegiate on Monday, May 13, 2024, was a delightful evening celebrating vocal and instrumental talent. Along with band performances, the Grade 8 Choir, Junior Choir, Elementary Choir, and Equinox Choir delivered enchanting performances, each group showcasing their hard work and harmony. A special mass choral performance united the voices in a powerful finale. Adding to the night's significance, two special guests from the municipal government attended, applauding the students' achievements and the school's dedication to fostering musical excellence. The event highlighted the vibrant community spirit and the exceptional musical skills nurtured at Saint Thomas More Collegiate.
The STMC Chamber Choir shone brightly at the CISVA Choral Workshop Day, showcasing their talent and dedication to choral excellence. Under the guidance of renowned conductors, the students collaborated with peers from other schools, enriching their musical skills and broadening their performance repertoire. This inspiring event not only highlighted their vocal prowess but also fostered a sense of community and shared passion for the arts.
The St. Thomas More Collegiate Senior Concert Choir, Junior Concert Choir, Equinox Chorale, and Chamber Choir showcased their musical prowess at the North Vancouver Choral Invitation. With harmonious melodies and impeccable vocal arrangements, they captivated the audience with their diverse repertoire and exceptional talent, earning admiration and applause throughout their performances. Their participation underscored their commitment to musical excellence and served as a testament to the vibrant choral tradition at St. Thomas More Collegiate.
Vocal jazz took center stage at the Surrey Jazz Festival, enchanting audiences with their rich harmonies and dynamic group bond. With powerful solos from members of the group, the vocalists captivated listeners with their beautiful performances and impeccable vocal control. Their passion for jazz and ability to convey emotion through song created an unforgettable experience, highlighting the timeless allure of vocal jazz at the festival, and earning them a perfomance at the vocal jazz showcase.
Featuring Senior Chamber Choir and Jazz Choir members
The STMC Chamber Choir's performances at the STMC Open House were captivating and elegant, showcasing their exceptional musical talent. Performing Christmas carols, the choir's versatility and precision left a lasting impression on the diverse audience. With skillful guidance from the Mr. Lui, the choir engaged attendees, creating an immersive and memorable musical experience. The STMC Chamber Choir played a pivotal role in making the Open House a harmonious and inspiring occasion for all.
Music Knight began with performances by Junior Choir of:
Like it’s Christmas by Jonas Brothers
A Million Dreams by Benji Pasek, Justin Paul from the movie “The Greatest Showman”
September
Elementary Choir was next to take the floor with:
Happy Birthday Jesus arrangement by Carol Cymbala
Up On The Housetop arrangement by Mac Huff
Equinox followed with lovely performances of:
City Called Heaven arrangement by Josephine Poelinitz
Sweeter Than The King’s Wine by Stephen Hatfield
Grown Up Christmas List by David Foster, Linda Thompson-Jenner and arrangement by Audrey Snyder
Chamber Singers continued the night with:
Witness arrangement by Jack Halloran
Carol of the Bells arrangement by Peter J Wilchousky
Silent Night arrangement by Anita Kerr
Grade 8 Choir then put on a wonderful show of:
Christmas Lullaby
Christmas In Our Hearts
Finally, Senior Choir kept the night full of energy for the audience with:
You Make It Feel Like Christmas by Blake Shelton, Justin Tranter, Michael Busbee, and Gwen Stefani, with the arrangement by Mac Huff
From A Distance by Julie Gold and arrangement by Mark Brymer
All I Want For Christmas Is You by Mariah Carey + Walter Afanasieff and arrangement by Mac Huff
The STMC Chamber Choir embarked on a transformative musical journey to the UBC Chorale Invitation on October 27. Amidst a sea of melodic brilliance, our vocal ensemble showcased unparalleled harmony and artistry. The resonating notes of diverse repertoires reverberated through the venue, fostering an unforgettable musical tapestry. The experience enriched our choir’s collective spirit, fostering a deeper appreciation for the choral arts.
Our school's band and choir programs embarked on an enchanting musical journey to Disneyland, where the magic of music met the magic of the Happiest Place on Earth. Amidst the enchanting ambiance of the park, our talented students not only gave captivating performances but also participated in enriching workshops, honing their musical skills even further.
Under the California sun, our band and choir members showcased their incredible talents, filling the air with harmonious melodies that resonated with audiences from around the world. The trip was a unique blend of musical growth, bonding, and thrilling experiences that will remain etched in our memories forever. Thank you, Disneyland, for providing the perfect backdrop for our musical dreams to come true.