A Spring Concert, 2012

The curtain remains closed as people stream in, looking for a place to sit. The hall hums with conversation and exclamations of greeting. Small children settle down in rows in front of the chairs set up for the audience, eagerly anticipating the entertainment their siblings will bring. Adults settle in the chairs, hoping that they have found the best possible seat from which to view their loved ones. It is that time of year: the Spring Concert in which the children`s musical and dramatic talent is showcased. And I am among one of the proud parents waiting to see my children perform.

The curtain at a school concert. © Colline Kook-Chun, 2012

The curtain opens and the show begins. Even though the first act does not include either of my girls, I enjoy the music anyway. These are children I have come to know as I have worked around the school and it is a pleasure to watch them participate. It is like seeing a different facet to their personality.

It is time for my youngest to show off her violin skills. She sits in the front proudly, holding her instrument with ease and familiarity. It is time to begin. The ensemble lift their bows, and begin to play. I am amazed at the beautiful music the group creates – you can hear they have all practised and worked hard on playing together as a group. The difference between hearing her practice at home and play together with her classmates is astounding. I am surprised, too, at my daughter’s confidence when she was so worried to play standing aside from the group without her sheet music.

Her voice also shone when she sang with rest of the junior choir (made up of grade 4,5 and 6 girls). As their sweet voices rang across the hall, I smiled with pleasure. I could see the girls were enjoying themselves as they sang “Donkey Riding”, interspersing their song with action. When the Primary Choir sang (grades 1,2 and 3), I could not believe that it was not so long ago that I was watching my daughters sing in such a big group. Yet another reminder that they are growing up.

My eldest daughter plays the flute. Her class was the second last act of the evening. We had seen a short play (Blanch Neige et les Sept Nains), watched some singing and dancing put together by the drama teacher, and immersed ourselves in the music of the evening. As she plays the flute, she sat in the front – and I could see her clearly. We enjoyed their rendition of Queen’s song “We Will Rock You”, clapping in time with the beat.  How proud the children were to have performed for their parents a song that drew such a response.

The concert ended with a video made by a grade 3 class to showcase the theme co-operation. I am unable to show the video they made – but can share with you the song they used: Toi et Moi (You and Me) by Gregoire. Even if you do not understand French, I am sure you will enjoy the rhythm and beat of the song.

We enjoyed our evening. And as we collected the children afterwards we heard many “I am proud of you” and “you were fantastic”; and saw many children walking up straight with pride and confidence.

Do you enjoy going to school concerts?

© Colline Kook-Chun, 2012