A heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped make the JPII Spring Concert such a joyful celebration of music, talent, and community! From our supportive faculty and families to the smiling faces in the crowd, we are grateful for all who came to cheer on our student musicians.
With more than 60 students participating across band and choir, this semester’s performance showcased incredible growth, creativity, and dedication. The evening featured a diverse repertoire that spanned centuries, genres, and cultures—highlighting the well-rounded excellence of our Fine Arts program.
Middle school band delighted the audience with timeless pieces like “Ode to Joy” by Beethoven and the soulful “Banana Boat Song.” The high school cadets energized the room with Sousa’s classic “High School Cadets March” and the upbeat “Hard Rock Blues.”
The Popular Music class brought a fun, fresh vibe with “Fly Like an Eagle” by Steve Miller Band and a standout SCISA selection, “I Wish” by Stevie Wonder. Clare Jolley’s solo in “Blue Moon” was a beautiful highlight.
The combined bands raised the bar with dynamic selections including “Friday Night Groove,” “Brace for Impact,” and the Warrior favorite “Golden Warriors Fight Song.” Original compositions like “John Paul Too!” by band director, Victor Ney, gave the evening a personal touch.
Our middle and high school choirs brought both power and poise to the stage. Highlights included the haunting “O Love” by Elaine Hagenberg, the stirring spiritual “Down in the River,” and the Broadway favorite “Defying Gravity.” Maddie Hardy and Kinzlee Minton shined as soloists in the contemporary piece “Back Pocket.”
The grand finale—an energetic and collaborative performance of “Africa” by the combined bands and choirs—was the perfect ending to an unforgettable evening.
As Choir Director Emily Brown reflected, “Our students are so much more than what we see in the classroom. Many are athletes, leaders, and now showcased performers. This concert was a beautiful reminder of the whole student—each one full of gifts and potential.”
She added, “We spend all semester preparing for these moments, and it means so much to see our teachers and families in the audience, supporting the hard work and heart our students pour into their music.”
Special thanks to Mr. Victor Ney, Ms. Emily Brown, and all the faculty who supported the students' musical journeys this semester.