In December, The Farmington High School (FHS) Music Department performed a round of concerts for their Winter Concert Series. Senior Cecilia Kolenich, a clarinet player for the band, went to all three of the concerts, each held on a different night.

   “I went to the choir and orchestra concerts to support my friends, then performed in the band concert on Thursday.” 

   Each concert was held at 7:00 P.M. and ran for approximately two hours.  Ms. Corroza led the choir on Tuesday, December 5, followed by Ms. Haines leading the orchestra on Wednesday, and then finished with Mr. Ventres leading the band on Thursday. In total, the music Department consists of about 300 student musicians, which is partially why the concerts have to be split up over the course of multiple evenings.

   Each ensemble practiced their three songs for about three weeks prior to the concert.

   “I wasn’t sure how I was going to learn such challenging charts in only a month, but Mr. Ventres really took the time to work with us as instrument sections until we were comfortable with our pieces and playing them on the stage,” she stated. 

    Kolenich had a particular group that she really enjoyed listening to, and described how she always looks forward to their performances. 

   “My favorite group was the FHS Madrigals, who sang holiday carols dressed in costumes. They’re one of the most advanced music groups here at FHS, and I always enjoy hearing their voices.” 

   However, her favorite part was getting to hear the variety of groups perform their pieces each night, which for Kolenich, made the concert even more enjoyable. 

   “My favorite part was getting to hear what the other ensembles had been working on this past month. I liked being surprised by each group’s songs every night.”

Also, for the first time ever, the Farmington Public Schools (FPS) Friends of Farmington Music, a non-profit created by the supporters of FPS Music, held a social event before each concert, allowing attending students, as well as parents, to indulge in some complimentary snacks and drinks before the show.

Additionally, the Tri-M Music Honor Society sold poinsettias during the concerts as a fundraiser for the music department. They can be seen on the stage in the image above. 

Overall the concert series proved to be a success for the music department and a treat for the FHS community.