By Abigail Kim & Emanuel Nader

On Friday, December 1, the Granada Hills Charter (GHC) Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, and Jazz Combo performed a joint concert in Highlander Hall. The large selection of songs varied from fast-paced and slow-paced, invoking sadness, joy, and excitement in the audience. 

The concert began with a performance by the Jazz Combo. As attendees entered Highlander Hall, the musicians performed a Bebop combo, consisting of the songs such as “Milestones” and “Four.” The Orchestra then followed with four additional songs, which included an orchestral adaptation of songs such as “Austrias” and “Fandango Festival” before moving into intermission. The concert concluded with the Jazz Band who played songs such as “Dat Deer,” and “A Night in Tunisia.” 

As this concert was the first collaboration between the two musical groups under the jurisdiction of Orchestra Director Bailey Knowles and Jazz Combo and Band teacher Todd Simon, students were thrilled to have the opportunity to perform. 

“I was very excited to play at a formal concert for the first time with the Jazz Combo,” junior Joaquin Mendoza said. “We had spent so much time and hard work preparing for it, [and] I was ready to finally showcase the amazing show we had put together.”

But with the opportunity to perform, came three months of intensive practice. Each member spent time both inside and outside class practicing and mastering the pieces.

Each piece was unique and emotional. “Asturia,” for example, was very upbeat and included extremely fast notes, portraying emotions of excitement. “Andante Festivo,” on the other hand, was slow, portraying emotions of beauty and harmony. “Iditarod” concluded their repertoire, in an uptempo beat, capturing the adrenaline of the iconic Alaskan dog-sledding race.

Although many of the musicians performed at different skill levels, the diversity only added to the unity between both the Orchestra and the Jazz Combo & Band, enhancing their final performance. 

“Our orchestra was composed of musicians with diverse skill levels, so we chose pieces that struck a harmonious balance, offering a moderate level of difficulty that catered to the varying proficiency within the ensemble,” senior and orchestra violinist Chalongraj (Ken) Phongpharnich said. “I was in a few orchestras in elementary and middle school, but this year is my first time back as a senior. Initially, I thought I wouldn’t be scared, but I was wrong. Once the lights dimmed and the spotlight shined on us, I suddenly felt huge pressure and even chills setting in. However, I felt highly relieved afterward for performing above my expectations.”

The joint concert was overall a success, a memorable experience for students, parents, and staff. After the success of their performance, GHC Orchestra and Jazz will continue to master their craft in preparation for next semester’s future festivals.