Even without spectacular weather and a stunning venue, last night’s Pops Concert would have been a home run.
But superb talent, off-the-charts energy and the clear love of teenage musicians and their teachers for each other made the event — a beloved tradition, and a gift of the Staples High School music department to the town — a grand slam.
A jam-packed Levitt Pavilion crowd was thrilled by small ensembles, the Symphonic Band & Orchestra, Jazz 1, Choralaires, Sonora, Orphenians and the Stradivarius Chamber Orchestra.
It was hard to tell who enjoyed the evening more: the students, conductors, or the large audience.
As emcee James Naughton said at the end: “What a way to start the summer!”
Eight student-led ensembles offered pre-concert entertainment.
More pre-concert fun.
From left: Levitt Pavilion executive producer Carleigh Welsh, Staples principal Stafford Thomas, orchestra director Jeri Brima, choral director Lauren Pine, townwide arts coordinator Steve Zimmerman.
2-time Tony Award winner James Naughton served as emcee.
Owen Naughton — James’ grandson — on keyboard, with the Jazz 1 group.
Staples musicians applauded their friends.
Eva Slossberg sings “Sign of the Times” …
… and Will McCrea offers “Careless Whisper.”
The full house, in full swing.
Jeri Brima conducts the orchestra.
Lauren Pine, and her Orphenians.
One view of the full orchestra …
… and another.
Staples directors (from left): Jeri Brima, Caitlin Serpliss, Kevin Mazzarella, Lauren Pine, Carrie Mascaro. (All photos/Dan Woog)