The University High School Choir program put on its annual “Legends Concert” on Jan. 29 and 30. The show featured students and staff performing songs by artists who hold a special place in their hearts, showcasing their strengths. Ranging from Metallica to Laufey, the performers offered the audience a wide variety of music genres. In “Legends,” UHS students passionate about singing had the opportunity to gain some experience with on-stage performances.
“The best way for me to get over stage fright is taking a moment to laugh with my friends beforehand,” sophomore Sienna Gillen said. “It’s really comforting to have other people cheering you on before going out to sing!”
Students had the creative freedom to dress up and fully impersonate the artist they were covering, which provided an opportunity not usually given during choir performances. Freshman Cheska Corona opened the show with her cover of “Valerie¨ by Amy Winehouse, embodying the iconic singer’s signature poofed up hairstyle and polka dot dress with red accents. Throughout the show, background vocals were performed by sophomore So Nomura, senior Shine Kim, and student teacher Ms. Emily Hernandez, enhancing the production as a whole.
¨My favorite memory from this concert was being able to work alongside Ms. Hernandez and Shine and becoming closer to them,¨ Nomura said. ¨It was such a fun experience being able to work on so many songs and kind of letting my creativity really wander.¨
Many students took a more challenging route and chose to sing songs in different languages. Junior Justin Yang sang a rendition of the Japanese rock band Randwimp’s “Sparkle,” also playing a piano accompaniment. Senior Aydean Eskandari covered Juanes‘s “Mala Gente” while showing off his impressive electric guitar skills. Ms. Hernandez performed “Como La Flor” by Selena, showcasing impressive technique on the song’s challenging notes. Despite the nerves and difficulty of the night, the students still found fun ways to interact with their classmates and make this a night to remember.
“My favorite memory from the concert was hanging out with my friends pre-show,” junior Giuliana Torquato said. “We were warming up, laughing and doing our pre-show circle where we do fun group exercises to get the energy up for our performances.”
The supportive energy in the room was hard to miss. Students who did not perform on stage sat in the audience to cheer on their peers, creating an atmosphere centered on community. The show closed out with Toquato’s rendition of ¨Honeymoon Avenue¨ by Ariana Grande, which had the audience clapping and on their feet.
“Closing this show was an unforgettable moment for me,” Torquato said. “I got to sing the ending of my song with all my friends and get the crowd to join in too!”
Overall, the UHS Choir Department members — from the band to the backstage crew — created an unforgettable and legendary night for the audience and themselves.
