It was a fantastic night, Wednesday, December 11, 2013, as the audience listened to carols sung by the PHHS choir and music played by the band. Everyone was joyful as the choir snapped fingers singing “Santa Baby” and “Stand By Me!” The program started with the chamber choir’s “Sarabande” by Georg Friedrich Handel, a slow, yet rhythmic song that built up tension as well as harmony. The chamber choir performance ended with “On This Winter’s Night” and “Nothin’ Gonna Stumble My Feet,” both fun tunes that had the audience tapping their feet and following the beat. The concert choir came on stage and sang “Si Vis Amari” and “Hanukkah Flame.” Probably, the best number of the night was “Stand By Me,” sung only by the choirboys as wearing cool-cat sunglasses. While jamming to this classic hit, the audience sang along as well. The choir-ladies sang “Santa Baby” with snapping fingers to get everyone into the music. The soloist, senior Jasmine Barkley, did a fantastic job grabbing the audience’s attention.

After the holiday carols, the concert band performance took off with “Hail to the Spirit of Liberty” by the one and only John Philip Sousa. This classic band march with a steady beat and a fast tempo introduced everyone into the fabulous Hills orchestra. The band followed up with “Folk Song Suite” which was separated into three differently styled music. Then, the music slowed down as they played “I Wonder as I Wander” arranged by Ruth Elaine Schram and Larry Clarke. This piece demonstrated every instrument in the band and created tension via contrasting soft parts and crescendos, instilling emotions into the song. The concert band took a little break to let the combined choir sing “Jingle Bells,” with soloist senior David Riverol, who captivated the viewers with his jazzy, deep voice. The grand finale was the band and choirs, including the newly formed faculty choir, coming together and singing the traditional “Hallelujah Chorus” from “Messiah.” The orchestra supported the chorus, creating harmony throughout the auditorium. The performers all received standing ovations; it was a successful night!

If you missed the winter concert, come to the spring concert next year and experience what the viewers had felt during the amazing performances!