The James A. Garfield Elementary Youth Chorus and Garfield High School Concert Choir captivated a full house Tuesday evening with their annual winter recitals at the Iva Walker Auditorium.
The Youth Chorus, comprised of fourth- through sixth-grade singers, opened the night with an eclectic mix of seasonal and patriotic selections. Highlights included Theresa Jennings' "Grateful Nation," a heartfelt tribute to the military, and a lively rendition of "Mr. Grinch," composed by Hague and arranged by Funk, which drew smiles from the crowd. The students also performed the serene "Winter Walk" by John Riggio, painting a vivid picture of the season’s tranquility.
For the grand finale, the Youth Chorus teamed up with the high school concert choir to deliver a spirited performance of "Sleigh Ride," arranged by Beck. Choir Director Joel Logan invited the audience to join in the festivities, saying, “It’s fun to sing things together—a community that sings together, stays together.” His sentiment resonated throughout the auditorium as the audience eagerly participated in holiday tunes.
After a brief intermission, the high school concert choir took the stage, presenting a repertoire that showcased their growing versatility and talent. The recital opened with the stirring strains of the folk spiritual “Follow the Drinking Gourd,” arranged by Gilpin, which evoked the resilience and hope of its historical roots. The evening continued with the ethereal harmonies of “Twilight” by Beck and a spirited rendition of “Closer to Fine,” arranged by Emerson. The latter featured standout solos by soprano Lillian Adair and senior alto Hallie Cebulla.
The choir spotlighted senior members Abygail Seiler, Hallie Cebulla, and four-year tenor/bass member Marshall Dahlen, who were celebrated for their dedication and leadership.
Traditional carols brought a nostalgic charm to the performance, including “Deck the Halls,” the wistful “In the Bleak Midwinter” by Rossetti and Holst, and the jubilant “Angels We Have Heard on High.” The high-energy “Carol of the Bells,” arranged by Wilhousky, and the perennial favorite “Sleigh Ride” once again brought the audience to life.
The recital concluded with “A Muppet Christmas Carol,” featuring a memorable solo by soprano Sierra Foy that left the audience beaming.
Both performances drew enthusiastic applause from the packed auditorium, highlighting the strong community support for the school’s music program.