A performance of a lifetime awaits the North Montgomery High School choral ensemble Northern Lights next month. The group was selected to perform in New York City on March 30 as a part of the Manhattan Concert Productions’ Octavo Series at Carnegie Hall.
The ensemble submitted audition materials last spring and has been preparing to perform with approximately 200 other students from across the country.
The National Festival Chorus will be led under the direction of Dr. Scott Buchanan, director of choral activities and director of the School of Music at
Indiana State University. Students from the ISU Chorale will also perform with the chorus. Buchanan has selected six choral selections the ensemble will perform including Shawn Kirchner’s “Unclouded Day” which the concert has been named. The concert will also include a featured performance from the Collegium Musicale Chamber Choir of Estonia as well as the National Children’s Festival Chorus led by guest conductor Henry Leck, founder and former artistic director of the Indianapolis Children’s Choir.
The choirs selected must be able to perform the repertoire at a high level of excellence in order to participate. This festival will provide unique student growth opportunities through the audition, rehearsal, feedback, assessment and performance.
“It will be an experience my students and I will never forget,” said Sarah Kavanaugh, NMHS music teacher.
In addition to the festival schedule, students and chaperones will also attend a Broadway production of “Dear Evan Hansen,” eat at iconic restaurants like “Ellen’s Stardust” and visit “Top of the Rock.” Their hotel will be in Time Square just blocks away from Central Park, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral and Radio City.
“I am very excited to travel to New York City for the first time, especially because I will be going to college in New York this fall,” said senior choir member PJ Miller.
Sophomore, Mary Logsdon is looking forward to staying downtown at Time Square.
Sponsorship opportunities are available to support students in Northern Lights as they prepare to represent Montgomery County in the “Big Apple.” Organizations and individuals may contact Sarah Kavanagh directly at skavanagh@nm.k12.in.us or 765-362-5140, Ext. 292.
The community is invited to enjoy musical performances from all of the high school ensembles at their Winter Band & Choir Concert at 7 p.m. Feb.13 in the NMHS auditorium.
