By LAURA ROBISON
The Progress
It was clear that the holidays had arrived in a musical fashion, as the Moapa Valley High School Music Department presented a concert last week featuring the school’s choir and jazz band.
On Thursday, Dec. 2, holiday favorites were on the menu, along with a lot more. The concert was served up in the school cafeteria as well as a potluck meal. All was under the direction of MVHS music teacher Ted Biggs.
The MVHS Choir delighted the audience with four songs including Silent Night, Deck the Halls, Carol of the Bells and Hallelujah, with Erin Cornwall accompanying on piano.
“The choir has made incredible progress already this year,” said Biggs. “This is their third performance of the year, and the students went from singing two-part harmonies to three and four-pars.”
Freshman singer Aiyana Jim said, “This has been a good experience, singing has helped me get out of my shell.”
Eric Bates, whose daughter Katarina Wilson sang in the choir was happy to hear the progress as well. “I like to see and hear all the kids performing, it surely brings the Christmas spirit alive,” he said.
The Jazz Band was up next. Suddenly the cafeteria felt like a jazz club – with the audience being able to have something to eat while listening to some laid back melodies.
They performed Shuffle Time, Frosty the Snowman, Funky Ol St. Nick and Bari, Bari Good.
Asked why he liked playing in jazz band, senior Jeremiah Mortensen laughed and said, “I can hit things that make noise!” “I like that the drums drive the tempo.”
Biggs took a few moments to recognize some of the talented student accomplishments. Ten students from MVHS have been chosen to play in the SUU Honor Band and Honor Choir, which covers parts of Nevada, Utah, Arizona and Colorado. “I am extremely proud of these students who work hard to develop their skills,” he said. “Most of these kids are involved in other activities and sports in our school, and their dedication clearly shows.”
He also thanked the community for support in the music programs including faculy and staff, especially MVHS Principal Hal Mortensen who helped secure new instruments, chairs and music stands.
To close out the performance the jazz band played the final tune of the evening: Feliz Navidad, as the crowd got in the swing of things and sang along.
