Music Alive in Burbank
If the singing coming out of the John Burroughs High School auditorium is any indication, Music is Alive and Well in Burbank.
I had the pleasure of attending the Burroughs Vocal Music Association's "POP SHOW 26: My Vision" and boy did I come away impressed. While it was no surprise, the school's vocal and instrumental music programs are among the best, it was certainly more than I expected.
Back in my days at Burroughs, we had 3 choirs. Today they have 8 choirs and a whole bunch of really talented kids. Each of the different groups provided numbers in the show, along with ensemble performances and solos mixed in. My favorite number was "Good Morning," a song and dance number with Caitlin Ary, Cory Hidalgo, and Rachel Shapiro. The professional quality of singing, and especially the tap dancing in this number makes you think these young people are going to go far.
Equally impressive was "All I Ask of You" performed by Katie Trimble and Adam Nos. Nos used a cane to steady himself, later appearing on crutches in the show. What a trooper. Their duet didn't need any crutches to prop it up. What beautiful voices.
There were a number of solos throughout the show, with everyone sharing the spotlight at one time or another. I don't think anyone can walk out of that auditorium without being impressed with the voices of Meggie Claus, Cerita Bickelman, Vanessa Gray, Sasha Lippman, John Scoville , Trimble, Ary, Shapiro, Hidalgo, and so many others.
Director Mary Rago deserves so much of the credit for the fine work that her students turn out. A "class act," Rago took the time to thank Chris DeMore, the choir teacher at Jordan Middle School, for sending her so many talented students. Choir parents, under the leadership of Booster Club Co-Presidents Connie Trimble and Kevin Ary, played a big part in the success of the show.
It's too late to see this year's Pop Show, but the choir's Spring Concert will be coming up in a few months, after they get back from a competition in Branson, Missouri. And there is always Pop Show 27 next year. Look forward to it --- I already am.
--- Stan
posted on 2/27/05