MEGAN TAKEDA –
CV Student Media –
Almost 400 high school students sit on the stage illuminated by bright spotlights, waiting to illuminate the symphony hall with their music. The surrounding audience is still, their eyes fixed on the stage.
This special group of band, choir, and orchestra students consists of the best in the Continental League– On Monday, January 11th, they performed at Boettcher Concert Hall in Denver. 33 Castle View students participated.
“I felt nervous and excited to be playing in Boettcher Hall,” said junior Alison Langenkamp (violin), who played in the Honor Orchestra for the first time.
Other more experienced performers, like senior Jenna Lindsey (flute) and senior Holly Sidney (violin), have been playing in the Continental League Music Festival for three years straight. Sidney was also in the honor choir.
“This year, I felt surprisingly calm,” said Lindsey. “In past years, I was so nervous because the music is really challenging.”
At 7 p.m., the Continental League Honor Music Festival commenced.
The high school musicians learned from and performed under prestigious conductors, and produced beautiful music of high difficulty. The emotion they exuded was infectious– the audience swayed in their seats and bobbed their heads to the beat. Some smiled, and some wiped a couple tears.
“That’s what I love about playing in an honor band,” said Lindsey. “Everyone loves music and they practice really hard. The music all comes together really beautifully.”
Senior Ramon Alvarez, a Continental League Choir member (tenor), said his favorite part was “not only performing but hearing the other groups”.
“It’s a really cool thing to be able to perform in the hall where so many other professionals play,” said Alvarez.
For Sidney, this concert isn’t as special or nerve-wracking anymore. After three years, she has come to value something else.
“It’s nice to see the friends I’ve made over the years and perform with them,” she said.
For many like Langenkamp, it was a very special night.
“My parents, grandma, and boyfriend came to see me. My grandma never gets to see me play. She lives in New Mexico.”
The concert was also special for Lindsey.
“It was extra special because it’s my senior year. I was a little sad that it would be my last time, but it has been such a blast and I’ve made a lot of great memories.”
To end the night, the band, choir, and orchestra came together as one to produce the song God Bless America. The crowd joined in and gave a standing ovation when all was sang and done.
