![Incoming Student Union President junior Aki Bejamin and other SU candidates sitting on stage while waiting to give their speeches during the May 18 SU Debate. Aki said he plans to “burn [the SU] all down and start anew.”](https://thhsclassic.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/IMG_9600-e1782439128607-1200x1131.jpg)
The Music Department showcased its annual Spring Concert using a new two-day format. In an effort to reduce stress for student musicians, one night was dedicated to band and wind ensembles, while the other featured chorus and strings.
Music director Thomas Larocca led the Symphonic band, Concert band, and Wind ensemble first. A week later, the second section of the concert took place with music directors Christopher Lee and Christopher Morrison leading strings and chorus students, respectively.
According to Mr. Morrison, the decision was made as a whole department in order to give each division more time to perform, and keep the chaos of concerts at an all time low. Mr. Morrison said, “It just took a lot of logistical stuff out of the equation, and it just made for a very, very smooth evening.” More than preventing chaos, the choice was also made to ensure anyone who wanted to watch had a seat, creating a special experience for all involved.
Reacting to the performance, he said, “I think it ultimately ended up with a beautiful performance, and I’m just so proud of what they did.”
Sophomore Eshara Roy, a member of Symphonic Band said, “Originally, concerts always felt somewhat rushed and crowded because of how many people had to be in the same room at once.” Combining all musical ensembles led to performers also having difficulty keeping track of their instruments, and following schedules precisely. Both Eshara and a fellow member of Symphonic Band, junior Nobonita Chanda said having a longer concert time typically meant going home much later, and significantly tired from the day. Nobonita said that being able to end earlier means having a more enjoyable concert while still reserving free time at home.
For her perspective on audience engagement, Nobonita said, “I think the shorter concert allowed the audience to connect better with the crowd because oftentimes, friends/family only stay to watch their kids and leave so by the end, less people are watching the last few performances,” and that “shorter concert times help you appreciate the music.”
Sophomore Neliza Nova, a musician from symphonic strings added onto this and said that “the fact that the concert was a lot shorter made the anxiety a lot less amplified.” She said she appreciates the old ability to perform alongside a larger group of people, but she believes the peacefulness outweighs the negatives.
