Chorus and Band Celebrate the Season
Winter Concert was lively and entertaining
The JCDS Band and Chorus presented their Winter Concert to an enthusiastic crowd of music-lovers. There was so much excitement in the room as the young performers took their places.
The Beginning Band kicked off the program, performing My Dreidel, Hard Rock Blues, Jolly Old St. Nicholas, and Up on the Housetop. While the arrangements were simpler, the musical skills already developed by the beginning band members brought them to life for the audience.
Next, the chorus performed Dynamite (BTS), Dance, Dance, Dance, Dos Oruguitas (by Lin-Manuel Miranda), Aiken Drum, and Home. Their infectious energy had everyone tapping their toes!
Next, the chorus performed Dynamite (BTS), Dance, Dance, Dance, Dos Oruguitas (by Lin-Manuel Miranda), Aiken Drum, and Home. Their infectious energy had everyone tapping their toes!
We were especially privileged to have JCDS parent Chris Loken accompany the chorus on his fiddle for the Aiken Drum number. The fiddle's lively twang added a folksy charm that brought the song to life. Thank you, Mr. Loken.
The piano accompanist was Cameron Bainger.
"Each song had a unique challenge. Aiken Drum and Dance, Dance, Dance were both particularly challenging because they are in 2-part harmony," said Music Specialist Jessica Barker. "I heard both of these pieces at different honor chorus events over the years and was excited to be able to bring them to JCDS. Our singers have risen to the challenge with these pieces."
Moments like these show how music builds confidence and teamwork.
Finally, the Advanced Band played BASIEcally Blues, African Noel, All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth, and Jingle Jolly Jangle. They were joined by several JCDS alumni, who lent their talents to the performance. It was a heartwarming reunion, blending past and present Sharks in perfect harmony!
"Our most challenging concert selection was Jingle Jolly Jangle, which is a jazzy combo of Jingle Bells and Jolly Old St. Nicholas," said Band Specialist Chrystal Staples. "Melodies constantly 'interrupt' one another, which can make it difficult for young musicians to follow the flow of either melody. The kids kept me in suspense as to whether we were going to pull it off, but in the end, they came through and had a blast!"
Sharky is proud of all of the musical Sharks who put in the hard work of learning music theory and practice, practice, practice on their instrument. Music is a glorious sound that enriches all of our lives.
In addition, learning to play a musical instrument enhances young students' academic performance by improving cognitive skills like memory, attention, and problem-solving, while also boosting math and language abilities through pattern recognition and rhythm. Additionally, it fosters discipline and perseverance, which translate to better study habits and overall school success.
"It is always a pleasure to watch these incredible children achieve goals that should be well out of their age level!" said Ms. Staples. "There is no greater reward than the joyful expressions I see on all their faces after a great performance!"
Let's give a round of applause to our talented Sharks—here's to more musical magic ahead!
Jacksonville Country Day School
Located in Jacksonville, FL, Jacksonville Country Day School is a private school for Pre-K 3 through 5th grade. JCDS prepares students for a healthy and productive lifetime of intellectual exploration, character development, and social responsibility.
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