This year’s Tinley Park High School Holiday Concert was nothing short of magical, with outstanding performances from every ensemble. The audience watched in awe as the immensely talented Titans serenaded the gym, solidifying the holiday spirit.
In total, there were six acts throughout the night. The Percussion Ensemble started the evening off with a bang, executing two electrifying numbers. The first of these was Toboggan, a piece composed by John Herndon. Toboggan depicts a joyous sleigh ride, ending with cascading emotion. The ensemble then brought out another story with Snowpocalypse by John Willmarth. The instrumental melodies translated the tale of a blizzard and the ups and downs that come along with such an event.
Attention then shifted to our Titan Choir, led by soon-to-be-retired Mr. Pazik. Pazik’s enthusiasm throughout each number was one for the ages, highlighting just how much he has given to District 228 over the years. Familiar favorites were belted out, such as Carol of the Bells and The Most Wonderful Time of the Year. Along with these came new favorites, one of them being Chapua Kali Desemba by David Lantz III. Chapua Kali Desemba borrows words from both English and Swahili, creating a harmonious connection between the two.
We were then brought to the Jazz Ensemble, who gave their hearts to three outstanding numbers. A standout among the trio was Hot Chocolate by Alan Silvestri, arranged by Rick Stitzel. To add to the already perfect rendition, the band exclaimed “Hot Chocolate!” at the end, showing just how committed they are to their art. Next, we were introduced to the Honors Jazz Ensemble, a group of nineteen students with immense passion. Taylor Couch stood out during Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town, showcasing her talent on the piano. The ever-so-talented Sara Anderson-Stewart joined the group to perform Christmas Time Is Here and Man With the Bag, beautifully uniting singing and playing in one moment.
The highlight of the whole night had to be ’Twas the Night Before Christmas, a collaborative effort from Concert and Symphonic Band, with narrations by Mrs. Bumphis. The classic tale by Clarke Moore was told alongside theatrical music, transporting the audience into the narrative. When asked about his solo in the number, Jackson Harris beamed, “It was very great! We all did amazingly. Wow, I feel like a god.” Laughs were had, smiles were brought, and overall pride was felt.
After the concert, I had the opportunity to interview the real deal: Mr. Hendrix—who, unsurprisingly, is a Titan himself. His being an alumnus of Tinley Park High School truly helps solidify his bond with his students, allowing him to connect with them in “ways other band directors may not.” When asked about his approach to music theory, he explained, “I really like to focus on the fundamentals—really dig deep.” That technique was evident in tonight’s production. “This group of kids is really talented, and they respond very well to any feedback they are given.” As he said this, band members worked hard to put their respective instruments away carefully, displaying responsibility as well as talent. Overall, it was a job well done by a core group of our Titans.
Their next concert is in late February—stay tuned for a date!
