The Freeport Public Schools’ Performing Arts Center was full of incredible creativity as Dodd Middle School and Freeport High School hosted their annual Winter Festivals of the Arts. The performances, held on Dec. 9 and 10, respectively, showcased the remarkable artistic and musical talents of the students bringing the community together in a celebration of fine arts prior to the winter holidays.
Dodd Middle School’s Winter Festival of the Arts kicked off with a visual arts presentation, setting the stage for an evening of exceptional performances. The concert began with the concert band’s performance of “A Hero’s Return,” by D.A. Richard. Next, the mixed chorus gave a beautiful rendition of “Carol of the Bells,” under the direction of Ms. Sherill Spruill.
The concert orchestra impressed with the first movement of the “Brandenburg Concerto No. 5” by J.S. Bach, while the select chorale delighted the audience with a vocal rendition of “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy,” arranged by J. Funks. Adding to the evening’s magic, the mariachi ensemble performed three stunning pieces, including “Cielo Azteca.” The chamber orchestra closed the performance with a showstopping rendition of “Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24,” the holiday hit from the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
The artistic excellence continued at Freeport High School the following evening with the high school’s Winter Festival of the Arts that featured a variety of performances that captivated the audience.
The event started with a fine arts presentation, where pieces were also on display in the lobby for live viewing. The performances kicked off with the mixed chorus singing “Children, Go Where I Send Thee” and “Joy to the World.” The first performance from the new vocal jazz ensemble was “Winter Wonderland” and “The Christmas Song” was also a highlight of the show. The concert band played two pieces, including the lively and festive “Santa the Barbarian” by R. Standridge with narration by Mr. Warner. The select chorale, under the direction of Monique Retzlaff, delivered a remarkable performance with three exquisite pieces, including “Soon Ah Will Be Done.” Their talent and artistry truly shined, adding a special touch to the evening.
Next, the wind ensemble closed the performance with a combined instrumental and choral finale, “Christmas on Broadway,” a medley of Christmas classics. The event also included the combined strings ensemble, mixed chorus and sinfonietta.
Both events underscored the district’s commitment to encouraging artistic expression and providing platforms for students to shine.