As spring approaches and the year wraps up, performers of all kinds prepare to take to the stage one last time with their fellow members and friends. For seniors, this was the last time they would experience a performance at Freedom. After students of all ages spend a considerable amount of time working towards this end-of-the-year show, the day finally arrived on May 2.
This is when the annual Spring Concert was held at the high school. This concert featured students within Jazz Band, Chorus, and Concert Band. During this event, a total of 14 students in the Jazz band, 18 students in the Chorus, and 34 students in the Concert Band performed the songs that they have been preparing for many months inside and outside of class time.
Through dedication and hard work, both the Jazz Band and Concert Band pulled off a successful show with the guidance of their director, Ms. Emily Rickard. While these two groups consist of many of the same students, each group performed a set of different songs that showcased the differences between the two. The Jazz band performed a total of two songs. This included “Cheesecake” and “Enter Sandman.” The Concert Band, being a larger group, performed three songs. This included “Critical Mass,” “First Suite in E-Flat” and “Danse Carnevale.” Within the band, all graduating members are also eligible for the 2023 Taverna Scholarship. This year senior Leannah Messenger was the recipient.
As for the chorus members, they sang a total of five songs. This included “Don’t Get Around Much Anymore,” “Once Upon a Dream,” “The Battle of Jericho,” “Hushabye Mountain” and “Stand By Me”. Within these numbers, the director, Jennifer Newman, provided the group with many opportunities for solos. This year’s soloists included freshman Abigail Hunter and seniors Haylee Johns, Rylee Baucan, Kyler Brown, Haylie Couch and Alexander Probst. Solos allow the students to shine alone and show what they can achieve as an individual.
“My favorite part about the spring concert was stepping out of my comfort zone. I did this by doing a solo and I felt I was pretty good at it,” Hunter said.
The spring concert is a great way for students to showcase their knowledge and improvement over the course of the year. They are able to demonstrate these to their family members, friends and the community. Those watching can appreciate the dedication, talent and individual personalities within the concert. Each musician or singer has their own style, personality and skill set. However, they can all still come together to create a cohesive and successful piece.
“My favorite part about chorus is that it is a perfect time to be myself. I feel that everyone in the chorus is my family,” Hunter said.
While there are many seniors leaving, the underclassman will take over and continue to improve and grow as individuals and as a whole.