As the winter chill settles over University School, our Winter Concert Series, comprising the Fall Piano Recital, The Winter Concert, and the Holiday Jazz Jingle Jam, showcased the diverse talents of students, bringing together classical compositions, festive tunes, and jazz improvisations.
Fall Piano Recital:
Although initially planned to kick off the season, the inaugural Fall Piano Recital, featuring eight exceptional students, Justice Arai, Nicky DiTirro, Daniel Lee, Michael Nersesov, Anshul Sharma, Danny Sullivan, Rosco Tin, and Michael Zhang, has been rescheduled to a later date. These pianists will present a repertoire ranging from the timeless works of Chopin, Liszt, and Beethoven, marking a significant milestone for the University School’s music program.
In describing the preparation for the event, Mr. Steve reflected on the unique independent nature of the Fall Piano Recital: “The students will be preparing on their own. They all auditioned in front of a panel of judges, and then, based on their auditions, were accepted to perform at the recital,” he explained.
The Winter Concert:
On November 30, the Upper School Winter Concert transported the audience into the celestial realm with the theme “Beyond the Stars.” The performers, including A cappella, Glee Club, Orchestra, and Chamber Players, truly explored the stars. The concert delivered a diverse musical journey, incorporating familiar melodies, loved movie scores, gospel tunes, and the cherished Holiday Sing-Along.
Mr. Steve explains that he often finds his themes “in the most random places or experiencing the most random things.” After he heard just one specific chord, he said, “Oh, that’s it. I know exactly what I’m building the entire Glee club set around, and it just works.”
Holiday Jazz Jingle Jam:
Closing the series on December 5 was the Holiday Jazz Jingle Jam, featuring the US Jazz Ensemble. This evening of music included performances of John Coltrane’s ‘A Love Supreme’ and premiered new compositions by senior Strnad composer Anand Stephens. Adding a special touch to the performance, Mr. Steve will join the ensemble to sing the festive tune, ‘Zat You, Santa Claus?’
Mr. Kay explains that the Jazz Band not only explored holiday tunes but also tapped into Black culture through their performances. Designing the program around the students’ skills, Mr. Kay promotes a curriculum that “everyone can take a bite out of.” Central to Jazz is the art of improvisation, which Mr. Kay describes as “an important part of learning to make music” and something seen in the world every day.
All three events are free of admission. Doors open at 6:30 for both the Fall Piano Recital and the Jingle Jam, and at 7:00 for the Winter Concert.
In anticipation of the performances, Mr. Steve encourages the audience “to really enjoy the moment, to really take the time to come to these performances and just enjoy the moment,” emphasizing the opportunity to immerse themselves in musical bliss during this busy time of year.
The Winter Concert Series at University School will be a celebration of talent, creativity, and the joy that music brings. All are welcome to attend and experience the magic of these performances.
