WOW!

The past two days have been filled with excellent music, and brimming emotions. Thursday was the last High School band concert for the class of 2012. Tonight was the last choir concert. It was two of the hardest concerts I have ever taken part in. (The fact that it was also the last concert for our amazing choir director before he moves on to bigger and better things didn't help.)

I just want to thank Mr. Schlake, Mr. Helzer, Rachel, Alex, Haley, Amber, McLain, Nichole, Evan, Kurt, Katy, Tyler, and Nate for making me feel welcome in the Fine Arts community at the high school. The transition into freshman year was so seamless, it seems impossible that it was ever awkward to talk to an upperclassman. There are so many rising stars in next year's seniors and juniors, and we sophomores will hold our own. I want to welcome, be a mentor,  and be a guide to the incoming freshmen next year, in the same way I was welcomed, mentored, and guided this year.

A tradition at our school is to sing The Lord Bless You And Keep You at the tail end of every concert, and it really got me this time. Seeing all the seniors handing out flowers to their loved ones, and watching as one of my close friends who will be moving next year break down really "struck a chord" with me. It just goes to prove how moving music can be. Music really does pick up where words leave off. Non-musicians will never know how it feels to be a part of a choir of instrumental ensemble. It really is an amazing thing.