Trees adorned with silver garland and lights; a stage festooned with swags of greenery; baked goods and raffles amid a festive crowd: the holiday spirit was visible and audible this past Thursday at Waltham High School.
MaryBeth Augustine-Walsh, Fundraising Chair and Priscilla Lopez-Pullano, WCPA President made the dream work with team work. Parent volunteers who assist throughout the year, behind scenes and in the front lines, keep the music playing.
In addition to raffles and baked goods, a holiday-themed photo booth was set up, adding to the unique party atmosphere. Kristine Sullivan, Willie, and Rosalino Gonzalez joined the pre-concert frivolity.
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Edmund Finnell, the backbone of the fine arts program through his career in Waltham public schools, proudly showed off the stained glass and sculpture that his students have designed this year. As a patient mentor and dedicated teacher, he has encouraged generations of young artists to challenge themselves as they learn new techniques.
Class of 2021 Christopher Mastoianni's photography appeared to viewers as a dramatic painting. This was the goal in his Intro to Digital Photo assignment, and he nailed it!
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The Art Show Reception included diverse musical and artistic talents of students. The String Ensemble, Guitar Ensemble, and Show Band played holiday selections while families, students, and art-lovers admired art displays. Student artwork was provided by the Visual Arts Classes of AP Drawing and Portfolio, Advanced Art, Sculpture & Ceramics, Digital Photography, and Foundations of Art.
Karina Diaz, who plays baritone horn in 11th grade, took an art tour with her mother before scurrying backstage.
While parents played, things backstage got down to business as senior Sebastian Nixon became the official bow-tie wrangler for the newer members of the music department.
Some middle school musicians were invited to join the high school concert. Peer support is a vital part of band culture. Kennedy Middle School 8th grade percussionists Joshua Registre Coulanges and Seamus L Pilette represented their class with excellence.
As the Art Show Reception drew to a close, guests were ushered in to the Robinson Theatre. Alyssa Cincotta directed six choirs, each one showcasing a variety of holiday songs from around the world.
The Mixed Choir featured Alicia Duce, Anna Kraffmiller, and Jennifer Tutiven.
The Latino Coir and Honors Mixed Choir sang a dulcet rendition of Noche De Paz/Stille Nacht/Silent Night.
The Latino Choir wowed the audience with their dynamic voices.
Music Express included the traditional Dominican melody of "El Pambiche Lento."
Music Unlimited sang "A Christmas Carol," and also "Go Tell it on a Mountain." Freshman like Jamie Martin and seniors such as Allyson Costorf practiced regularly in and out of school to bring professionalism to their art.
The WHS Combined Choirs challenged themselves with the poetic Hebrew love song, "Erev Shel Shoshanim," with gorgeous results.
The Percussion Ensemble directed by Kevin Burke burst on the scene with "Wishing You a Groovy Christmas" and "Christmas Holiday."
The Wind Ensemble led by the much-loved Steven Barbas featured Anthony Butler on tenor sax and Daniel Saintival on trumpet.
Mr. Barbas came back to the stage to direct the Orchestra. Their version of "Troika" bounced through the audience with exhilaration.
The night came to a grand finale with the WHS traditional Holiday Pops Sing-Along. The audience lifted their voices and joined the onstage music, creating a communal celebration for all to participate in. A standing ovation and passionate applause rang in the air when the music ended.
