By Dallas Carey
The gym at MMCRU Middle School was buzzing on Monday, May 5, as students from grades 5 through 8 took the stage for the last band and choir concert of the year. Even though the concert had to be rescheduled because of busy spring schedules, a big crowd of parents, grandparents, and community members showed up to cheer on the students at this midday performance.
The show started with the choir, and it was clear right away that each group brought something special. The 7th and 8th graders opened the show with their more polished voices, followed by the 5th and 6th grade groups, who were still full of energy, excitement, and possibly a few nerves. One of the highlights of the choir portion was when the 5th graders sang a song entirely in French—a piece they learned after some students took part in an Honor Choir event earlier in the year. “I can’t speak French, let alone carry a tune in another language—this is impressive!” one parent was overheard saying during the performance.

You could definitely hear the difference that a few years of choir experience makes. The older students were confident and filled the room with sound, while the younger students really showed how much they’ve grown since the start of the school year. It’s exciting to imagine how their voices and confidence will continue to grow year after year.
Next up was the band, and much like with choir, the students’ growth was easy to hear. While every grade had strong moments, the 5th grade band’s performance of Popcorn Prelude definitely stood out. As the name suggests, the song featured students “popping” up from their seats in sections as they played, building in speed and excitement—just like real popcorn. The audience couldn’t help but laugh and smile as the students bounced up and down while still managing to keep time and hit their notes.
The 6th grade band also made an impression with Gale Force, a song that mimicked the sounds of an oncoming storm. It was dramatic and full of energy, and you could really feel the tension building as the song went on. It’s amazing to hear how expressive the students are, even at such a young age.
All in all, it was a wonderful way to close out the school year, and a proud moment for families who’ve watched their kids grow throughout the year. For the 8th graders, it was a bittersweet sendoff as they wrapped up their middle school music careers. And for everyone else, it was a great way to show off all their hard work and practice this year.