As everyone entered Millbrook High School on the last day of school before winter break, the morning weather was chilly and crisp with a breathtaking sunrise spreading across the horizon covering the entire school. A mix of rich and buzzy sounds were heard through the walls, indicating the morning Jazz Band has started its annual winter performance located in the main lounge across the cafeteria.
With every hand movement, Band Director Payne guides the performers through the concert. The band’s understanding of his gestures emphasizes his integral role in the performance. The band incites mixed feelings of anticipation for the winter break and holiday spirit by performing a mix of holiday songs. Passersby had their eyes and ears fixated solely on the music unfolding in front of them. Let this annual performance serve as a reminder of the importance and impact of unity and community as it insinuates pride in being a Millbrook Wildcat.
Students performing wore holiday themed hats while playing, one student going as far as wearing an inflatable reindeer hat! Even teachers allowed themselves to indulge in the holiday spirit by wearing funky and colorful sweaters. Trumpet player, Liam Orcutt describes his enthusiasm for the event, “I always love the Holiday Jazz performance because it gives us an opportunity to brighten everyones day and get students and teachers excited for the holiday season.”
Millbrook High School Principle expressed his appreciation regarding the tradition in an exclusive interview with CatTalk. Dr. Brian Saunders shared, “The Winter-Break Jazz Performance, usually on the final day before Winter Break each school year, is one of my favorite activities of any school year. I typically begin asking Band Director Payne about spreading this type of joy in early November, and then he confirms with me that we’re doing it in early December. The impact of the activity is impossible to measure, but if we brighten even one person’s day and/or Winter Break, then it is totally worth it. I know that it brightens mine!”
Dr. Saunders also reflected on the growth of the performance: “With every passing year, this performance becomes more and more exceptional. From the professional “fronts” that Director Payne mysteriously came into possession of, to the star alums invited to join the group while home from college, this holiday performance continues to reset the standard for excellence. We’ve come a long way since having former assistant principal Charles Patton play in the group. I want to thank Director Payne for spreading joy to everyone via the Jazz Band. The large crowd gathered around would likely agree, next year’s can’t come soon enough!”
The Holiday Jazz concert has evolved into a hallmark of Millbrook High School’s culture, a seasonal gathering that unites students and staff in shared holiday joy!
