A lot has happened in the lives of the students and teachers in Hanover High’s music program this past week. With Mr. Schnelle out because of a sudden illness, and the winter concert scheduled for Dec. 17, the bands and choral groups worked incredibly hard to make sure the show went on. Band teacher Mr. Haraden stepped in to conduct Chorale, Concert Chorus, Vox and Corporation and students pulled together to perform in Mr. Schnelle’s honor.

To kick off the evening, the freshmen of Chorale sang two fantastic Christmas carols and an arrangement written by Mr. Schnelle of “White Christmas” with Concert Chorus, reminding the audience that our Christmas may not be white this year, but will always be in spirit. Concert Chorus (the group I am a part of) then sang our two songs, including “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch!” which had everyone in the audience laughing like children. The Corporation, our all-male A Cappella ensemble, took the stage afterward, singing a hysterical mash-up of “Winter Wonderland” and “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” poking fun at the lyrics and melodies (“Who the heck is Parson Brown?”) Vox, our all-female select choir, went next, performing a hauntingly beautiful a Cappella tune and a more laid-back choral version of “Santa Baby.”

The instrumental Jazz Ensemble started the band portion of the concert, and had me in shock at how well they put together a medley of many familiar Christmas songs. After a brief intermission, the whole Symphonic Band took the stage, with more instruments than anyone can imagine are a part of a high school band. Their set was about 25 minutes, and included “Sleigh Ride” and a Russian winter song. Listening to them had me in awe with the amount of talent that was on stage.

For the grand finale, the bands and choruses sang one last medley of traditional holiday classics titled “A Christmas Festival,” which was very well put together despite the short amount of time everyone had to rehearse together. The audience, including families of students and HHS music alumni, was very pleased with the concert and the amount of talent the school showed. As an individual performer, I was also glad I had an opportunity to be a part of such a successful music program for my last high school winter concert. I strongly advise anyone interested in watching the school’s talented musicians to come to the next show!