PUHI — Island School’s three choral ensembles, together comprising the Island School Chorus, will take the stage at the Kauai Beach Resort’s Jasmine Ballroom at 6:30 p.m. today to present their 10th annual winter concert.
“Oh, What Fun!” showcases over 120 students in grades 4 to 12 performing a range of Christmas music designed to delight and entertain an audience of all ages and musical tastes.
“Naturally, the most rewarding part of my job is our large-scale public concerts, but this one is especially exciting,” said Philip Steinbacher, fine arts department head and choral conductor at Island School.
“Since the chorus’s inception in 2006, the Christmas music featured represents a range of repertoire in various styles and genre, all selected based on its ability to entertain.”
He said some employ the use of humor, some use wordplay, some are satirical, some are campy, but all are aimed at bringing smiles and laughter.
“It’s always challenging to find new ways to present a concert, but I think we’ve really achieved something novel this time,” Steinbacher said.
“Each of the different singing ensembles has a ‘showstopper’ number, which I believe will really make for a rousing evening.
“Expect fun, toe-tapping, and good music. It promises to be a delightful evening of song that will put everyone in a holiday spirit.”
Steinbacher said as an educator, it’s important that he encourages students to explore musical elements and their impact on others.
“Music is, of course, a part of virtually all holiday celebrations. But it’s more than that,” he said.
“It’s an integral part of our culture, our society and our history. It’s critical that students know that by singing — by working hard and being a part of an ensemble — they have the ability to not only entertain, but to actually move people. I think that’s powerful. And important for all of us to consider and remember.”
“Oh, What Fun!” is accompanied by Rose Alfiler-Taboniar.
Tickets, $12 adults, $5 for youth ages 3 to 17, are available online at https://goo.gl/11kxPb and, if space permits, at the door.
