By Bianca B

Walled Lake School Districts’ elementary level kids came to Central on January 19, so the performing arts could put on a short concert for them in order to introduce them to new instruments and show them what different instruments sound like as well as how they all sound together as a group.

“At that age, kids are open to just about anything and willing to try new things. Introducing them to the world of music is a good idea,” said senior Miriam Tolston, member of the instrumental music program.

“The concert went well. The orchestra played as well as wind ensemble and choir. I think it’s important to do this concert because it introduces these kids to all of the instruments. Once they get to middle school, they already have an idea of what they want to play,” said senior Grayson Combs, members of the instrumental music program. “I remember when I was in fifth grade and this same concert impacted me. They already look up to us because we’re older but if we are doing something that’s exciting, they are more likely to want to do the same.”

“The kids were very engaged in the concert. They danced while we sang. It’s important that we spark their interests in performing arts at this age so we can keep the programs going,” said junior Alexandra Claybaugh, member of the vocal music program.

Students involved in band, orchestra, and choir were pulled out of class around 8:30 a.m. to rehearse. Unfortunately, because of an ice day that students received previously in the week, the orchestra was not able to learn one of the songs that they performed until the day of the concert. Luckily, the performance went very well.
Songs performed by band, orchestra, and choir included Jig by Gustav Holst, Can’t Stop The Feeling by Justin Timberlake, Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey, Windsprints by Richard L. Saucedo, Festival Sanctus by John Leavitt, Freedom Train by Rollo Dillwortth, and Max Martian and Shellback arranged by Larry Moore.