Brass instruments and the Choir practicing for the upcoming Cantata concert. (Ella Fairbanks)
Orchestra, Band, and Choir all practicing their music for the Dec. 18th Cantata concert (Ella Fairbanks)
Central looks forward to the Music Cantata in December every year. The choir, orchestra, and band students work together to put on a unified performance. It is known across the music department as the most challenging but most rewarding concert of the school year. Many students enjoy the experience and look forward to it each winter.
Every year, Mr. Martinez, the music teacher, picks out a new Cantata that has not been performed for several years. Mr. Martinez stated about the current music selection, “It is a new one for me and the group, but it has been done before.” Seeing as it’s a new one for Mr. Martinez to direct, it will be all the more exciting to attend this year. This year’s Cantata includes many rhythms and classic Christmas carols. However, it still brings many challenges to each department.
“It’s tough for everyone in different ways,” Mr. Martinez mentioned. The music teacher explained that the choir will have the challenge of projecting enough to be heard well amidst the band and orchestra. He further explained that the orchestra will have difficulty with the unfamiliar key signatures and keeping up with some of the fast tempos. Daniel Apostol, the president of orchestra, said, “With a mixture of sharps and flats, it is definitely not easy. However, I believe once we are all prepared for our performance, it will sound amazing.” The band has also had their share of struggles. Mr. Martinez explained, “For band, the biggest challenge is that we really have a small number this year.” Each department has its share of challenges with this particular Cantata.
Amidst the difficulties that have arisen with this Cantata, it will still be comparable to most past Cantatas. Mr. Martinez revealed that two or three of the seven Cantatas that Central rotates through, are arranged by Joseph Martin. This helps the Music Department because it is a somewhat familiar style of music.
The Cantata this year comes with many difficulties and challenges for the Music Department, but it allows everyone to work together to create a beautiful performance. Central’s 2024 Cantata should be something everyone can look forward to this year. I encourage any student interested in attending the Christmas Cantata to experience a great performance and support Central’s Music Department. Now that December has arrived, mark your calendars and plan on attending Central’s 2024 Christmas Cantata on Wednesday, December 18th.
