Holidays at Hendricks Unites Student Musicians in a Celebration That Feels Like Family

Within the walls of Hendricks Chapel, student musicians, lighting technicians, and singers come together for a final rehearsal, each contributing to the annual Holidays at Hendricks concert. This tradition is more than just a performance; it's a culmination of months of dedicated practice where various university ensembles unite for a collaborative musical experience that embodies a sense of community and family among the participants.

The Emotional Impact

As artistic director José 'Peppie' Calvar calls upon the students for whom this concert will be the last, a reflective and emotional atmosphere takes over. Senior choir president Kaycie Romano remarks on the lasting memories and feelings that the Holidays at Hendricks concerts have created over the years, indicating the event's sentimental value to those involved. The two live performances not only showcase an array of ensembles but also consistently fill up their seating capacity shortly after registration opens. A wave of support from friends, family, and faculty members is always apparent.

Diversity in Music

The Holidays at Hendricks show spans across a variety of cultural celebrations with songs curated to honor different traditions and compositional styles. Ensembles such as the Syracuse University Symphony Orchestra, the Hendricks Chapel Choir, and others deliver performances chosen by their directors, alongside collaborative pieces selected by Calvar and his colleagues, including Calvar's own composition 'O Magnum Mysterium.'

Final Farewells and New Beginnings

Savoring her final performance, Romano shares the tradition in which senior choir members light audience candles, a ceremonious and heartfelt moment. As a prospective music teacher, Romano hopes to bring similar experiences to the students she will someday teach. Her sentiment is echoed by the inaugural Hendricks Chapel organ scholar, Joseph Maxwell Ossei-Little, who acknowledges the bittersweet realization of his last Holidays at Hendricks performance.

The Joy of Preparation

Preparation for the event starts months in advance, with rehearsals fostering a blend of growth, camaraderie, and excitement. Classical pieces like 'Silent Night' and 'The Lord Bless You and Keep You' remain staples, while new compositions are introduced each year. Ossei-Little shares the enjoyable, yet intense, behind-the-scenes process, which he finds rewarding.

Holidays at Hendricks is not merely about delivering a musically impeccable performance; it's about the journey, the connections made, and the start of new chapters for many of the students involved. It's a testament to the power of music in bringing people together and creating a familial bond among those who share the stage.

concert, holiday, family