View Video of Historic “First” for Music Department
From William Tell Overture to Pirates of the Caribbean

May 1 – often called May Day – is a celebration of Spring (recall the maypole), Labor Day in many countries, and even a bank holiday in the United Kingdom. But at Blair, May 1, 2009, will go down in School history as the first time Blair has boasted a full orchestra. Click here to view an excerpt.

Under the direction of Jennifer Pagotto, members of the music department took to the stage on Friday evening, May 1, including the string trio, jazz ensemble, wind symphony, string orchestra and full orchestra, heralding the season with such selections – entitled appropriately enough – as Primavera Portena and Gershwin’s Summertime.

In addition to the William Tell Overture and Pirates of the Caribbean, the full orchestra played Copeland’s Variations on a Shaker Melody. Jen introduced this impressive group by noting the historical nature of the moment – not only the founding of the full orchestra but the fact that it exists because of a talent pool of “high caliber” musicians. At the conclusion of their three selections, orchestra members received a standing ovation from the audience.

The Blair Academy Singers also performed, as well as the Blair Academy Dancers. Prior to the concert, Blair art students enjoyed a reception to celebrate their achievements in the areas of photography, graphic arts, video, ceramics, painting, drawing and architecture.

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Updated 5/5/09

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