MONROE, CT — Masuk High School’s choir, band and orchestra were unable to give live performances at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and, now that shows are onstage again, Assistant Principal Ian Lowell says audiences are smaller as some fans are slow to come back.
Cristian Rodriguez, a senior who plays the violin and performs in the orchestra and choir, knows the effect enthusiastic audiences can have on him and his fellow musicians.
“When attendance drops, students are less motivated,” he said in a telephone interview Friday morning. “When we see a couple of parents there, it’s discouraging. But when we see a big crowd and they’re on their feet cheering, it’s really inspiring.”
All are welcome to attend three free upcoming concerts to be held inside the Masuk auditorium:
- On Tuesday, Dec. 13, Michael Ances will lead the Masuk Band when it performs a holiday concert at 7 p.m.
- Margaret Chaves will lead the Masuk Chorus when it performs more holiday music on Thursday, Dec. 15, at 7 p.m.
- On Wednesday, Dec. 21, Lisa Homann will lead the Masuk Orchestra when it performs seven famous selections from “The Nutcracker” in a show featuring dancers from the Newtown Centre for Classical Ballet.
Lowell said these concerts can bring people of all ages together at Masuk, where they can get into the holiday spirit by enjoying talented student musicians.
“Just come to the main entrance of Masuk High School,” Lowell said. “You can just walk in. We can seat about 700 people in the auditorium. We’ve never had to turn anyone away.”
For information on new shows, visit the events calendar of Masuk’s website.
Re: the Masuk High Schools productions I would just like to say there are many Senior
Citizens who would love to attend, but they no longer drive at night.
I for one would be first in line, but nighttime driving is no longer an option .
Please give this some consideration when planning for next years performances