Sanford Middle School and High School Concerts

Sanford Middle School’s band spreads holiday cheer at their winter concert

Sanford School Department

By Sam Bonsey, Sanford Schools Communication Coordinator

Sanford Middle School music students, families, and friends packed the Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, December 11th, for their annual Winter Concert, filling the auditorium with holiday cheer and musical talent.

Students from grades 5 through 8 took the stage throughout the evening, presenting both individual and combined ensemble performances that showcased months of dedicated preparation.

The concert featured performances directed by the school’s dedicated music faculty: Erica Scarano, who leads the 7th and 8th grade band program; Joshua Hyssong, who directs the 6th grade band; and Kyle Hayes, who recently joined Sanford Middle School as its newest music teacher in November. Each ensemble demonstrated the impressive results of their preparation and practice.

The program included a mix of classical pieces and seasonal favorites. The 6th grade band showcased several talented soloists and small ensembles, including Parker Stone and Mariah Gillette performing “Hot Cross Buns” as a duet.

Another performance featured Aubree Theriault, Lauren Spaulding, and Liliana Searles presenting “Au Claire de la Lune.” The flute section also charmed the audience with their rendition of “Camptown Races.”

A special highlight was the collaborative performance pieces, including “Santa the Barbarian and the Pirates of the North Pole” by the combined Grade 7 & 8 bands. The chorus program showcased their talents with performances including “The Water is Wide” and “We Sing Gloria.”

The evening demonstrated not only the students’ musical abilities but also their dedication to practice and performance.

The concert stands as a testament to Sanford Middle School’s robust music program and its commitment to providing students with comprehensive musical education and performance opportunities.

Sanford High School choir members perform at their Winter Concert

Photo Credit: Sanford School Department

By Sam Bonsey, Sanford Schools Communications Coordinator

Sanford High School students filled the Performing Arts Center with seasonal spirit during their annual winter concert on Thursday, December 12th, featuring performances by both the school’s choral and band ensembles.

Under the direction of Ryan Geary, Director of Choirs, and Hailey Francoeur, Director of Bands, the evening offered a wonderful mix of holiday favorites and new musical arrangements.

The Sanford Chorale opened with the spirited “Give Me Some Rhythm!” featuring accompaniment by drummer Tim McGee and collaborative pianist Joanna Hamblin.

A highlight of the evening was the Chamber Singers’ performance of “Dodi Li,” featuring soloists Calleigh Bill, Hope Abbott-Eaton, and Annika Hamblin. On the stage of the Performing Arts Center, students appeared in formal attire of black with red accents.

The Select Treble Choir charmed the audience with pieces including “Can’t Catch Me Now” and “Carol of the Bells,” while The Bass-ics brought winter cheer with their rendition of “Frosty the Snowman.”

A special moment came during “Auld Lang Syne,” arranged by Geary, when alumni were invited to join their voices with the current chorus.

The instrumental ensembles then took the stage. The Jazz Ensemble presented a mix of seasonal favorites including “Oh Chanukah” and “Big Band Holiday.” The Wind Ensemble delivered a classical touch with Vivaldi’s “Winter Ballad” and Tchaikovsky’s “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy,” while the Concert Band brought the evening to a close with crowd-pleasers like “Too Much Percussion for Christmas (Trash the Halls!)” and the traditional “Sleigh Ride.”

The evening’s performances showcased the remarkable musical education taking place at Sanford High School, where students continue to develop their talents across a wide range of musical styles and traditions.