On Tuesday, Oct. 3, the third annual Culture Fest was a huge success, featuring talented performances from the Burroughs Wind Ensemble, Stage Band, Into to Musical Theatre class, Concert Choir, Madrigals, Orchestras, and student spotlights. Adding to the cultural experience, the Restaurant Careers class served an array of global cuisines.
The Wind Ensemble started the program with a piece written to be Disney-esque. The Stage Band, directed by Brian Cosner, then performed pieces originating from jazz and rock cultures.
Members enjoyed playing at culture fest.
“Performing at culture fest was a good first concert,” said sophomore Ethan Hardy.
April Bravo’s Restaurant Careers students provided a taste of Mexico and France, with apple empanadas, chocolate silk mousse, and mille-feuille with diplomat cream.
Then, sophomore Kiana Arechiga and junior Julia Rindt from the Intro to Musical Theatre class performed monologues.
Next, the Concert Choir, directed by Amber Petersen, performed the “Star Spangled Banner,” along with other songs inspired by sailors. The combined Concert Choir and Madrigals sang songs of traditional Israeli melody and the Burroughs Alma Mater. Madrigals sang a Celtic choral suite and a song of Latin origin.
Three student spotlights were performed; one was the Southern folk song “To the Sky,” sung by senior Tabitha Goodman. Seniors Andrew Bui and Amanda Huynh played “Serenade,” a violin duet from the Romantic era, by Jacques-Fereol Mazas. Senior Aidan Kyte played “Sarabande” by J.S. Bach on the cello.
Lastly, the Orchestra played a theme from film culture, and the Symphonic Orchestra performed pieces from Irish, Argentinian, and Bohemian cultures. Both orchestras were directed by Amber Petersen.
Overall, the Culture Fest was a wonderful celebration of the diverse cultures and talents in the school community.
Students worked hard to prepare for the event, which was evident in their performances.
“My favorite aspect of performing with the class is seeing how focused everyone is throughout the pieces,” said Concertmaster Amanda Huynh, a senior. “Our hard work in school really paid off at the concert as it is a group effort at the the end of the day.”
