by Jen Burhans
The Berlin school communities were treated to a spooktacular band and chorus performance on October 30. The high school band and chorus program showcased some fun October themed pieces.
The chorus, under the leadership of Leslie Eliashuk, performed songs featuring theatrical themes. The chorus had a fun time dancing through their first piece and featured many individual solos through each of the three songs and medleys. High School Principal Dr. Cathy Allain introduced second year chorus teacher Eliashuk and commended her on more than doubling the size of the chorus program in one year. The audience gave Eliashuk a loud round of applause on that note as well as the students.
The band closed the concert with a group of songs that band director Dan Byron explained “introduced the members to some classical music.” Some pieces were more recognizable than others to the audience but all carried a Halloween twist. In the first piece, “Revenge of the Dust Bunnies,” a costumed guest janitor made an appearance with a vacuum cleaner to help out the band. The following three pieces were short but well played. Dr. Allain asked for a show of hands from band members at the end of the concert asking if they participated in other clubs, teams or programs after the school day. A very large majority held their hands up. Dr. Allain pointed out how involved the musicians were in the school and commended their parents for all the support they give their kids.
Berlin will be hosting the RCSMA All-County Music Festival on November 15. Tickets can be bought at the door. December 9 at 6:30 pm is the Winter Concert which will feature the middle school and high school bands and choruses.