OBHS Music Department Holds Virtual Concert

By Stefanie Sadocha

The OBHS Music Department was pleased to hold their annual winter concert on November 24th. Under the direction of Mr. Sisia and Mr. Gianetta, the Middle Level Band, Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble abided by state regulations in order to put on a virtual, socially-distant concert.

​This annual performance was moved to a virtual format that enabled students to perform without an audience in the high school gym. A recording of these performances was just released to the community on the Fine and Performing Arts Department’s website on December 17th, the night the concert was originally scheduled for. 

The annual Winter Concert typically takes place in mid-december. Although it was a tough decision, moving the concert to late November ensured that all students got the chance to perform given the uncertainty of future in-person learning. 

The students were presented with a challenge when they found out their concert would be moved to an earlier date. The weeks leading up to the concert are typically crucial for perfecting their pieces, and some of those days were taken away. 

“I was nervous when I learned how soon our concert would be. However, I think we all took it as a learning experience to work hard, and ended up with success!” shares Brianna Barefoot, a member of the Wind Ensemble. 

The night started off with the Middle Level Band, which consists of two separate groups in order to abide by new safety protocols. First, the seventh graders performed, and the eighth grade performance followed. 

Next, the Symphonic Band, which also consists of two groups, performed. First, students with last names beginning with A-L performed, and the M-Z group followed. Juniors and seniors in Symphonic Band took part in both groups, regardless of their last name. Additionally, fully remote students were invited to take part in the concert. 

The night ended with the Wind Ensemble, which is made up of students in grades 10-12. Luckily, the Wind Ensemble was able to perform in one group since the size of their ensemble is smaller than the others. 

The Oyster Bay Choral Department also created a virtual concert that was released on December 17th. Members of the OBHS Chamber Singers recorded themselves singing their parts from home. The videos were then put together to create a full ensemble performance.

“It is difficult to record myself at home because I have to remember that it is not a solo, and the piece is still made for an ensemble setting. However, I am thankful that we are still able to share what we have been working on as a community,” shares Lauren Swezey, a member of the OBHS Chamber Singers. 

OBHS musicians are excited to share their performances with the community, so be sure to click the link below and check out the concerts!