Musical groups from West Hartford’s Kingswood Oxford School performed at an outdoor concert on the Senior Green.

Kingswood Oxford Arts Night. Photo credit: David Newman

Submitted by Jackie Pisani, Kingswood Oxford School

After a year of practicing virtually, socially distancing, and singing in masks, 16 musical groups at KO entertained families and friends on the Senior Green on a picture-perfect evening at the school on Friday, May 14.

High spirits were palpable as small groups sat on picnic blankets and folding chairs and young children toddled amongst the crowds. In short, it felt great to be back enjoying live music and fellowship as COVID restrictions have been lifted across the state.

Fours stages were stationed around the Green as 16 musical groups rotated throughout the evening. As the attendees entered the area waiting for the performances to begin, they were entertained by a “dance-off” among two KO students Frank Pu ’23 and Olivia Pear ’21, and an extraordinarily talented Hartford Dance Collective artist, Savana Jones. To lighten the mood, even more, Choir Director Steve Mitchell and Director of Equity Joan Edwards showcased their dance moves as they competed with the students.

The program was divided into two acts with the early performances featuring the Middle School Concert Band, Upper School Jazz Combo, Upper School Concert Band, Middle School Jazz Combo Band, Middle School Orchestra, Combined Middle and Upper School Orchestra, a jazz performance, and a finale of Mozart’s “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik” by the Upper School Orchestra.

The second act featured vocal performances by Outlook, The Oxfordians, Voce Novissaima, Crimson 7, two soloists: Sadie Margolis ’21 and Serafina Squarrito ’22, a dance solo by Savana Jones, and a medley from Spring Awakening. School librarian Nancy Solomon had a star turn as the mother in the Spring Awakening number, “Mama Who Bore Me,” who had the uncomfortable “birds and bees” conversation with her inquisitive daughter. Let’s say the word “love” figured heavily into Solomon’s very vague explanation as she covered her daughter with her apron when she spoke with her.

Kingswood Oxford Arts Night. Photo credit: David Newman

Kingswood Oxford Arts Night. Photo credit: David Newman

Kingswood Oxford Arts Night. Photo credit: David Newman

Kingswood Oxford Arts Night. Photo credit: David Newman

Kingswood Oxford Arts Night. Photo credit: David Newman

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