Schools
Monty's Music Makers Spring Concert
"Youth, Community, and our Country" was the theme of Monte Vista Elementary School's spring concert.
Fifty students participated in the choral performance Monty's Music Makers on Tuesday. The chorus presented two matinee performances for the students at the school and hosted a packed evening recital for parents and the community. The concert's theme was "A Celebration of our Youth, our Community, and our Country."
"The kids were incredible tonight with their show and I couldn't be prouder," said teacher Sue Mirau.
Monte Vista's 20-year chorus director and teacher Shirley Sycamore retired last year, leaving her choral legacy to Mirau and Pam Smith, who are also veteran teachers at the school.
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"The children just nailed it. This was the best of all three of their performances," said Smith.
The evening started with a riveting performance of the "Monte Vista Song," followed by "California, Here I Come." All of the Music Makers were clad in red, white and blue colors to add to the Americana theme.
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Lee Greenwood's moving, patriotic song "Proud to be an American" was belted out by first through third graders. Additional classics such as "This Land is Your Land," "Yankee Doodle," and "You're a Grand Old Flag" were added to the lineup.
"You just can't lose with patriotic songs and talented kids," said principal Dr. Suze Hoge.
Gayane Simonyan, parent at Monte Vista and accomplished pianist, tickled the ivories on the new piano purchased thanks to a Monte Vista Orchestra fundraiser. Simonyan set the stage for a wonderful evening for both parents and students alike.
The finale number for the night was a Disney medley comprised of songs from "Mary Poppins," "Cinderella," and "The Lion King."
"The children did a fantastic job and this was so much fun to watch. The kids learned hand movements to go along with the various numbers," said Lisa Wilson, parent of a first grade performer.
"This was a great spectacle! You could tell the teachers worked hard to teach timing and transitions with the songs," said parent Craig Dunkin.
Monty's Music Makers only had eight practices to get ready for their big evening.
