On December 3rd, the schools of Michigan City gathered into one building for their biggest concert of the year. One City, One Sound brings them all together to dazzle an audience of parents, teachers, and peers with the musical talents of the school district’s art department. Michigan City High School was proud to host it.
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“One of the things that are often overshadowed in the high school is the arts program,” said Principal Wendel McCollum. “Other school districts around the state and the country are eliminating the programs because of budget issues. This is a good showcase of the reason why it’s important for our students to have this as an outlet.”
The concert began with a sound check that would have brought angels to tears. It was followed by a succession of Christmas classics like “Christmas Time with Charlie Brown,” “Up on the Housetop,” and “The Hanukkah Song.” Each group of students, from elementary through high school, took turns performing. The concert included choirs from each school, bands from each, the Treble Chorale, and City Singers.
It was the third year of One City One Sound, a concert that the parents and teachers of the community have grown more and more excited about each year.
“Both of my daughters are playing in the band tonight,” said parent Frank Lawson. “I could not be prouder of them, or more impressed with the whole school. They do a great job.”
The kids love being able to play or sing at the concert too.
“It gives the students an opportunity to perform as one unified group, which is an amazing opportunity for a musician,” said the school’s Director of Communication, Betsy Kohn.
“The younger kids can look at the older ones and see what else they will be able to achieve if they keep at it.”
In past years, the sheer volume of attendees made parking difficult and left a lot of people confused as to where to sit or how to find anything. This time, Kohn explained, they took extra precaution. The local police directed traffic outside while the Junior ROTC assisted patrons indoors.
Student Jaoen Stockly, the group’s chosen spokesman, said they all appreciated the chance to volunteer their services.
“It makes you feel good to know that if someone needs help, you are able to help them.”