Purple Haze
Chorus students bring cheer at the holiday concert
By Elizabeth Thomas

December 23, 2010

The audience appeared to be lifted in Christmas spirit on Saturday, December 18, as high school students filled the auditorium with beautifully harmonized voices that sang of faith and good cheer. The holiday concert was the first highlight of the chorus students’ year, and they had spent months perfecting their music down to every note. The director, Laura Bissell, believed that “It could not have gone any better.”
The concert began with the song Kyrie, and instead of filling the risers, students lined the aisles and sang right next to the audience. They walked up on stage afterward to finish with Joy on Christmas Morning and Shepherd’s Carol. Women’s chorus followed shortly and sang African Noel and Nutcracker Jingles, which implemented the old favorite, Jingle Bells, into music from the Nutcracker Ballet. Senior Tory Parks then sang her solo, Hallelujah, and received a thunderous applause after the wonderful performance. Men’s chorus followed with I’ll Be Home for Christmas and Bidi Bom, a fast-paced and fun song that seemed to be a favorite. Senior Elizabeth Thomas followed with a beautiful rendition of O Holy Night and also received much applause. Percussion ensemble then played The First Noel, and afterward, the Bear Singers took the stage to sing Up On the Housetop, Mary, Did You Know?, Way Down In Bethlehem, and a mix of holiday favorites. Senior Natalie Spoonhour then seemed to captivate the audience with a smile as she sang Breath of Heaven (Mary’s Song). A select ensemble proceeded with I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm, and the mixed chorus finished with Everyday Christmas and Bethlehemu.
Audience members proudly clapped for the talented, young performers at the conclusion of the concert, and parents rushed outside to congratulate their child. As hugs were shared and roses were given, the spirit and music of Christmas still seemed to hang in air and on some of the smiles of those who were moved by the cheerful music. Chorus students, be proud of the hard work you have done and heart-warming joy you brought to some people that night.