From iconic classics like David Bowie’s “Starman” to contemporary international pieces such as “Baba Yetu,” our annual Winter Choral Concert at the Carlson Family Theater (CFT) on Tuesday, December 5, offered a diverse musical journey that transcended generations and cultures.

Our Upper School singers in Voices Now opened the show, delivering captivating renditions of “Starman” by David Bowie, “Smile” by Charlie Chaplin, Turner, and Parsons, and “Straighten Up and Fly Right” by Nat King Cole and Irving Mills.

The Sixth Grade Choir students took the stage shortly after with a spectacular performance featuring “Carry the Light” and “Kusimama” by Jim Papoulis. The Middle School Vocal Ensemble then showcased their talents with renditions of “Homeward Bound” by Mara Keen and “Hands Are Knockin’” by Kyle Pedersen. The Upper School Concert Choir later filled the theater with powerful renditions of “Dirait-on” by Morten Lauridsen and “Let the River Run” by Carly Simon.

For the final performance, all 130 choir students united their voices in harmony for the uplifting “Baba Yetu” by Christopher Tin and the timeless “Lean on Me” by Bill Withers.

"Being new to the Upper School Concert Choir this year made my experience at the Winter Choral Concert so magical,” said Nathan Danese ’25. “Hearing the songs that we've rehearsed, reworked, and meticulously cleaned for months culminate successfully in the theater with such energy and excitement was one of the most beautiful things I have ever been a part of.”

In addition to honing their vocal skills, Carrie Dietsch, Middle and Upper School Choral Music Teacher, emphasized that students involved in the choir program “develop essential skills such as sight-reading, and music theory, as well as engage in various games and activities designed to strengthen their musical abilities. These experiences lay the foundation for our students to evolve into well-rounded musicians.”

“My hope for my students is that they fall in love with singing,” said Dietsch. “I know we all have nerves when we get up on stage for the very first time but it shows us that we can do difficult things. It also builds community, and there’s nothing like singing with people that you enjoy being with.”

Immediately following the concert, our performers and families gathered outside the theater for a reception with sweet treats and hot beverages, generously provided and served by our VSSA volunteers.