Music filled the air during the in-school Winter Concert rehearsal performance featuring the sounds of the Mandalay Elementary School orchestra, band, and chorus. The budding musicians were able to use this live performance to shake off any nervous energy before the evening performance in front of family and friends at Wantagh High School.

The orchestra, directed by Mr. Vannoni, played March and Canon (Thomas May), Allegretto (Shinichi Suzuki), and Five Note Fiddler (Brian Balmages). Although small in number, the orchestra played as if they were preparing for a night at Carnegie Hall.

The Mandalay band under the direction of Mr. Annunziata, followed with the musical sounds of The Great Colossus (Gary Henderson), Caribbean Breeze (Victor Lopez), and Creepy Crawlies (Michael Story). The harmonious melodies of the brass instruments accompanied by percussion was music to everyone’s ears.

Making her Mandalay debut this year, Ms. McCreedy directed the choir with ease to musical selections Winter Song, The Moon, and A Solfege Christmas. Before each song, a brief explanation of the song’s essence was introduced by students. Under her direction, the choir delivered each piece with musicality and heart, showcasing both their vocal growth and their enthusiasm for performing.