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May 16, 2009

High school vocal groups host spring concert Monday

By Darla Slipke - newspress

Monday evening’s Spring Concert of the Stillwater High School vocal music department will feature a variety of performances that provide an overview of the year’s activities and put a spotlight on various smaller ensembles.

“There’s going to be a little something for everybody,” said Director Steve Maison.

The Pioneer Chorale and the high school mixed choirs will perform, along with several smaller ensembles that competed throughout the year. The high school orchestra will also perform during several selections.

Maison said the songs are diverse, ranging from American gospel music by a variety of composers, to an a cappella performance of “Amazing Grace.”

One song that is inspiring to Maison is “Lift Every Heart,” which was written as a reaction to the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, and as a tribute to the workers and volunteers who rallied together to help.

“It’s interesting to think now that even the seniors I’m teaching today are of an age that they’re aware, but it didn’t have as much of an emotional impact for them,” Maison said.

The final song comes from the movie “Amistad.” The song is sung in the Mende language. Maison said student Suzi Albright, who was born in Africa and lived there until she was 12, helped the students as they were learning the words.

Maison said they will try to keep the concert paced and moving quickly.

“There’s been a long tradition of quality performances by the choir department and the community has always been very supportive,” Maison said. “We would encourage everyone and anyone to come.”

What: Spring Concert of the Stillwater High School vocal department

When: 7:30 p.m. on Monday, May 18

Where: Stillwater Performing Arts Center

Admission is free. Parking is available on the south side of the high school, and additional parking is available on the north side of the building.

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