Wednesday night at 8:00 pm, the York Music Department was united while performing in the 31st Annual Collage Concert. This unique concert, different than that of which seasoned concert-goers are used to, is a combination of band, jazz, orchestra, choir, and dance that has something for everybody–from flashy choral spirituals, to explosive percussive songs, to emotional classical pieces.

Upon arrival, Principal Diana Smith introduced the concert with a heartfelt speech about how important the bond created and nurtured by the Music Department is to our school’s community. She explained how music impacted her life, and how proud she is of how much the York Music Department has flourished over the years.

Senior David Paprocki, a member of the drum line, explains how the music department has impacted him over the years as well.

“The best part of the music department is definitely the family aspect of it, you know?” said Paprocki. “Everybody coming together for the Collage Concert is great; you get to hear a little bit of everything.”

Freshman Grace Weinstein, though new to the school, already feels the welcoming ambiance that the music department is known for.

“My favorite part so far about orchestra is the energetic…everyone!” said Weinstein. “I definitely feel the positivity from everybody.”

Although students are generally most affected by the environment, teachers are also exposed to the wonderful workings which occur within the department.

Evangelina Pagones, student teacher for the Symphony Orchestra, is a key example of this. Conducting in public for the first time Wednesday night, Pagones explains that her favorite part about the whole experience was “looking out into the orchestra and seeing the endless smiling faces when those favorite parts come up.”

The program began with a moving dedication to Principal Smith entitled “The Last Spring,” performed by the Advanced Dance Class and the York Symphony Orchestra. The concert then continued with pieces performed by all levels of the ensembles, and closed with a vivacious performance of York’s school song.

With the Collage Concert behind them, the Department is looking forward to beginning  preparations for their individual holiday concerts.