Lights rose on the stage as singers aligned on the risers, musicians taking their seats and audience members silencing their cellphones. The annual Christmas concert was about to begin. 

For many Miegians, including alumni, the Christmas concert is an important part of the deep traditions that run through the school. Senior Jacob Drone, Cantare Deum singer and band member, was pleased with the result of all the hard work from this last concert and loved the joy each year brings. 

“There’s a lot of different readings and solo opportunities, especially with our Christmas medley,” Drone said. “It was just a great way to get as many people as involved as possible.”

Drone noted that singing at the concert was such a rewarding experience, giving him the opportunity to share his talents with others. 

“I am really thankful for my ability not only to use my voice but also to have been brought up with music education in order to feel confident in such a whimsical setting,” Drone said. 

Freshmen band member Alexander McBride said he was thrilled to be a part of his first-ever Christmas concert as he has enjoyed working with his fellow musicians. 

“Everybody’s trying to work together because the songs are definitely not easy for everybody in the group, “ McBride said. “It’s just a good, strong, workable community.”

According to McBride, the Christmas concert was a great way to get excited about Christmas and allowed him to express himself through music. 

“I love just the idea of music and the feelings of it and also just kind of what you can learn from it,” McBride said. “The people who participate in music are really nice, smart and caring.”

For sophomore Bria Sutherlin, Sacrum Cantores singer, the Christmas concert was not only a family tradition, with each of her older siblings having been in choir but spending time with friends.

“I’ve watched it since I was a little girl because my sisters have done it,” Sutherlin said. “Now, it will always be a part of my Christmas traditions.”

Senior Alexander Haggerty has been part of the band for the past four years. He said he was intentional to make sure he didn’t space out during a performance. 

“I’m very focused,” Haggerty said. “I feel happy as well, but there is never a time when I’m not fully locked-in.” 

Haggerty also explained how the environment in the music department is very fun, and they have the chance to do silly things along with serious displays of talent. A band member played a secret song at the concert. 

“I’m excited for the secret Grinch song we’re playing, and I do truly love the Grinch,” Haggerty said.  

The main agent that brings these music-lovers together is family or friends. These members have special people in their lives that truly made their concert stand out. For Drone, it’s his friends. 

“I want to shout out Alex Smith because he’s always on time and ready to help,” Drone said. “Also, choir president Gracie Keeney has done a whole lot of work this year. She puts in tons of effort to make sure we can have a great choir experience.”

For McBride, it’s his personal family and the people that surround him on a daily basis, noting that they have helped him prepare for the music festivities.

“I am thankful for my sister; she’s the one that drives me,” McBride said. “Great Uber. I would give her five out of five on Yelp.”

For Sutherlin, it’s her choir director and accompanist because they are the backbone of the performance. 

“Mrs. Hetherington helps us when we don’t understand our music at all, and Mrs. Christie helps us in a more general way,” Sutherlin said.

Along with Sutherlin, Haggerty is also grateful for his director Tiffany Nesbihal. 

“I feel like the obvious shout out should be to Mrs. Nesbihal because she is always there and willing to help us all learn, even when we make dumb mistakes,” Haggerty said. 

According to Drone, seeing his friends participate in their activities and spread the Christmas spirit with each of their songs made himself a better performer.

“It makes me want to give back more,” Drone said. “I really enjoy getting to make music with friends and how the community makes me feel.”