Every year, throughout the first month of school, Kent musicians diligently prepare for the Fall Family Weekend Concert—one of the first major musical events of the year, occurring during Family Weekend. Feeling excited, choral ensembles, Concert Band, Jazz Band, and Orchestra present their efforts in front of visiting parents. 

The concert is held in Mattison Auditorium on October 13th, the Friday of Family Weekend. The event was also live-streamed for all individuals who were unable to attend. The groups that performed, in order, were the Choirs, Concert Band, Orchestra, Flute Ensemble, and Jazz Band. The vocal ensembles were conducted by Mrs. Kovacs, the Choral Director at Kent for 11 years. 

First, the Concert Choir performed “Windy Nights” by Robert Louis Stevenson, accompanied by Judith Huang ‘26 on piano. Then, the Chamber Choir performed “Autumn Vesper” by Emily Bronte, with Veronica Jiang ‘26 playing the piano. Next, Kent’s a cappella group, the Kentettes, presented “Count on Me” by Bruno Mars, inviting audience members to participate in clapping and snapping. Finally, Kent’s select vocal group, Amaryllis, sang “Who Has Seen the Wind?” by Christina Rossetti, accompanied by Mrs. Kovacs on the piano. These songs provided a dynamic start to the show. 

Subsequently, Concert Band presented their pieces, “Highlights from Pocahontas” by Alan Menken, and “Onslaught!” by David B. Herring. Directed by Dr. Bouldin, they executed an astounding performance that impressed many. The String Orchestra then performed “Allegro” by W.A. Mozart, followed by “Yesterday” by John Lennon and Paul McCartney. This was Ms. Hill’s first concert at Kent. The newly recruited orchestra director had only a few short weeks with the orchestra members to learn, rehearse, and put together this performance for Family Weekend. 

Later, the Flute Ensemble played “Ashokan Farewell” by Ungar. It was a smaller group with only 8 students, playing the piece gracefully and skillfully. Finally, Jazz Band, led by Dr. Bouldin and Mr. Poirier, ended with “Blues 101” by Jay Chattoway, “Autumn Twilight” by Larry Neeck, and “Evil Ways” by Sonny Henry. 

With great applause, the Fall Family Concert had a powerful end. Many people felt that the concert was a successful one. Mrs. Kovacs felt that it succeeded in giving audience members an “inside glance as to the process that music students go through in presenting a polished piece of music,” by learning and layering intricate harmonies and rhythms. Dr. Bouldin says, “We have a lot of dedicated and talented music students, and they always step up and work hard to put on a good concert.” Ms. Pendal, Director of the Music Program, also adds, “The directors and the students love what they do, and we hope that that energy comes across in the concert.” 

Looking to the future, Ms. Pendal is excited about the potential of the musicians. “I am excited to see the growth of the ensemble throughout the year and how far they’ve come by the time the Spring Concert arrives,” she said. “I hope the musicians keep up their good work!”