The performing arts at Kingswood Oxford shone once again at the annual Candlelight Concert on Sunday, Dec. 15, in Roberts Theater. The event, which featured instrumental pieces from the orchestra and band as well as vocal performances from Voce, Outlook, and Concert Choir, gave audiences a chance to appreciate the time and effort the student artists had dedicated to the event.
Band and Orchestra Director Todd Millen noted the importance of the Candlelight Concert to the KO community. “We’re picking pieces of music that are done by major composers that the kids should know,” he said. “It’s a chance for us to work together as a department, and I think it’s just fun to play something that’s this professional.”
This year, the faculty choir did not perform in the concert as they had done in previous years, but that didn’t stop the students from dazzling family and friends with an incredible showing that put their talent and hard work on full display.
In order to prepare for the event, each group rehearsed their unique pieces individually, then came together the day before the concert to run through the staging, lighting, and sound aspects with Technical Theater Director Michael Bane. Sophomore Delphine Lamattina, a member of Outlook, reflected on the process. “It was really cool because we got to hear each other for the first time that night,” she said.
Delphine thoroughly enjoyed performing in the concert alongside her friends. “Everyone is there because they love to sing,” she said. “It’s a really fun group, and Mr. Baker lets us give input into what we want to learn and perform.”
Mr. Millen reflected on his favorite part of the experience. “I think when we finally get to be on stage and listen to it, you get to actually enjoy the fruits of your labor,” he said. “So I think being in the moment is the best part.”
Aside from the amazing performances, another highlight of the evening was a special tribute to Choral Director Steve Mitchell, honoring his dedication to the arts at KO. “Mr. Mitchell is a fantastic director,” Mr. Millen said. “He’s been there for all of us. Anytime anyone’s having problems with anything musically or even just anything personally, Mr. Mitchell’s always been a great pair of ears to listen, to offer feedback, and to just be supportive. I think we really are going to miss him a great deal.”
You can catch these performers at the upcoming Arts Night on Friday, May 2. KO a cappella groups Oxfordians and Crimson 7 most recently performed at the Wyvern Invitational A Cappella Festival on Saturday, Jan. 25, where they competed to impress a panel of judges. Congrats to all the artists who were involved in both of these events!
