What a Wonderful World Tour

"It's Time to Travel- Discover the melodies of your dream destination." This was the theme of a night that represented intriguing music from various cultures and beautifully moved its audience into a posture of worship. 

The Upper School Fine Arts Festival was a joyful celebration of creativity, talent, and visual expression. The evening began with a gallery of student work from our Art and Graphic Design classes, where friends and family were invited to explore a wide array of imaginative pieces. From striking portraits to bold graphic designs, the exhibit offered a colorful window into the students’ creativity and growth.

Following the visual arts showcase, guests gathered for a vibrant concert featuring the Upper School Choir, Band, and Ensemble. This year’s theme, "A Spring World Tour," invited listeners on a musical journey around the world. From the dramatic flair of French composer Bizet’s Carmen Suites, arranged posthumously by Ernest Guiraud, to the cinematic sounds of How To Train Your Dragon inspired by Norse culture, these band performances highlighted both cultural variety and musical depth.

 

 

The audience perked up at the sound of the Ensemble's fun and jazzy performances of "Jus' Gimme Some Joe!" and "Java Jive." 

 

 

Then, the choir split into a boys choir and a girls choir, with the boys transporting us to the ancient Chinese Empire, singing and dancing the Disney classic "I'll Make a Man Out of You" from Mulan. A girls' choir followed with a heartfelt performance of "For Good" from Wicked, arranged by Roger Emerson.

 

 

The band returned to play the sounds of the night's theme, "What a Wonderful World" arranged by Alan Baylock.

 

 

The concert concluded with a powerful and worshipful set of songs that included " Amazing Grace," "It Is Well," and "Joy in the Morning." The spirit of the evening culminated in a sense of gratitude and reverence, leaving the audience both moved and uplifted.

 

 

One of the night’s most touching moments came as we honored our graduating seniors. Each senior was honored and given a flower for their years in choir and band. Students who were in the choir for all four years are Petra B., Min Jun K., Vivien L., and Dénes Sz., with Mei Mei H. and Asher M. being in four years of choir plus one year in band. Nathan P. was in the band for all four years, as well as Qiao X., who also participated in one year of choir. 

 

 

After honoring the seniors, the night closed with the choir singing "Order My Steps," and the Ensemble gave the final blessing of the night with "The Lord Bless You and Keep You."

We are so grateful to Mrs. Rebecca Lingenhoel for her tireless investment in our students over so many years, and to Mr. Kyle McEachron for, careful guidance and inspiration of our art students. Thank you to every family member and guest who came out to support our students. It was a night of beauty, culture, and community—truly a joyful noise made in celebration of the one Who's "Got the Whole World In His Hands."

Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises!

– Psalm 98:4