HHS Music: Talent Expo 2016
Sophie Paven performs with her band on stage.
March 21, 2016
Synth music and power ballads galore; Tuesday, March 15 the HHS Music Department put on its annual Talent Expo directed by chorus teacher Mr. Young with this year’s theme: Music of the 80’s! Glam rock, dance music, and new wave ran supreme this past Tuesday as performers of many musical talents from all grades put on a show to remember.
The show started with a group performance by the Concert Chorale of “Take On Me” by A-ha with a solo by freshman Conor Power. It was a bright tune and a great way to start the night. The microphone was turned over to sophomores Kyra McConnell and Ethan Ayer with William Brady on guitar with a stellar performance of “I’ve Had The Time of My Life” from “Dirty Dancing”. Sophie Paven also put on a stunning rendition of “Bust a Move” by Young MC, providing the vocals and the live instrumentals at the same time. Casey Hussey and Clara Kingsbury and William Brady on guitar wrapped up the first round of solo acts with a great rendition of “Every Breath You Take” by The Police.
The Men’s Chorus took the stage, performing an energetic cover of “Jessie’s Girl” by Rick Springfield, featuring solos from seniors Evan Ayer, Liam Nahil, and Josh Crosby. The Chamber Singers performed “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper, with a solo from Sydney Asci.
The special acts resumed with a lively rendition of “You Make My Dreams Come True” by Hall & Oates performed by Andre Lavoie with help from musicians Sophie Paven, Luke Papich, Richard Miller, and Evan Collins. Catherine Bennis, Catherine Keonen, and Sophie Paven shifted from the fun song into a haunting cover of “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman. Chorale Spectrum then went on to perform “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” by U2 with exceptional solos from Evan Ayer and Natalie Gebhardt.
The expo wrapped up with group performances by the Mixed Chorus of “Africa” by Toto and by the Combined Choruses of “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves. The entire concert ran smoothly and superbly, thanks to the talents of everyone involved. Behind the scenes were Chris Smith on the guitar, Chris Connolly on the bass, Mr. Young on the keyboard, and Mr. Cincotta on the drums. Great job HHS Music, I can only wait with anticipation for Talent Expos to come.
