Trumpets blared, drums pounded, and flutes trilled during the PMHS annual Winter Band Concert. The event took place on December 21 in the Pelham Middle School gym. Both the Jazz and Concert Bands performed.

The Jazz Band took the stage first, beginning with the upbeat and jazzy In the Stone, which Mr. Van Bochove described as “very challenging.” It was followed by Don’t Know Why, a melodic tune made even more memorable by sophomore Alyssa-Lynn Catalanotto’s soft and meaningful vocals. In the upbeat Santa Claus is Coming to Town, bells and guitars added to the holiday spirit. The Jazz Band closed with a rousing rendition of  Spinning Wheel, which the band filled with a bit of psychedelic funk. It included solos by sophomore Brian McFarland on the trumpet and junior Ben Glickman on the tenor saxophone.

The Concert Band began with Snow Day Celebration, a bright and cheerful overture. Among the Clouds was a powerful tune that used wind chimes to add a mystical aspect to its sound. The band’s performance of the solemn song As Tears Fall on Dawn’s New Light was storied and emotional. The concert concluded with the new annual tradition of playing the spirited Sleigh Ride, which included a brief solo by senior Sam Imperato on trumpet.

“We put so much work and effort into [practicing for the concert] and it’s so nice to see how well it comes out in December,” junior Peyton Rees said.

The concert marked band director Mr. Van Bochove’s second winter concert.

“I think it was fantastic, and I hope everyone had a good time,” Mr. Van Bochove said.