Tuesday, May 20 was the combined fifth grade concert for all elementary schools in the Woodland Hills School District. Students in the fifth grade orchestra, chorus, and concert band from Edgewood, Turtle Creek, and Wilkins performed together for the first time. It's a unifying experience that prepares them for collaborating next year when they all move on to Dickson as sixth graders.
The orchestra kicked off the show under the direction of Ms. Caesandra Burgh. The students played three pieces. Mark Williams' "Celtic Dance" got things started, while Vince Gassi's "D 'n' A" tested the musicians with specific notes. The final piece was Brian Balmages' "Impulse."
The chorus was up next and all three of their songs played with their dynamic sound. Mr. Stephen Benton directed them through Greg Gilpin's "Whisper!" Mrs. Lisa Endler took over conductor duties for Lisa Longe's "Journey the Night." The chorus wrapped up their set with Mr. Kevin Shaw directing "Seize The Day" from the musical "Newsies."
Mrs. Lora Hertrick and the concert band closed out the show with three selections. "Starsplitter Fanfare" by Brian Balmages came first, followed by "Danza Africana" by Victor Lopez. The concert concluded with Robert W. Smith's "Furioso," which featured several special guests in the form of Woodland Hills staff, alumni, and current students.