Bringing the Holiday Spirit in Music

The Valhalla High School Jazz Band and Vocal Ensemble performed at the Westchester Meadows in Valhalla to an audience of senior residents and staff members on Dec. 21.

Playing jazzy arrangements of “Santa Baby,” “White Christmas,” and “Jingle Bell Jam,” the band had the audience slapping their thighs and moving their feet. A modern rendition of “Deck the Halls” featured the trombonists playing a syncopated rhythm reminiscent of the be-bop era. “The melody bounces around from the saxophones and trombones to a trumpet solo,” explained Jeff Dulitz, band director. “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” followed by “It’s the Holiday Season,” ended the program for the 17-member band.

The Vocal Ensemble began with an a capella version of “Little Drummer Boy.” They performed “Carol of the Bells” with the boys scatting under the melody, and “Christmas is For Children” which featured soloists. “Holly Jolly Christmas” further showed their skill at singing without instrumental accompaniment. Matt Norris, vocal ensemble director, called in members of the VHS Chorus to join the ensemble for the tender pieces “And the Night Shall Be Filled with Music” and “One Candle in the Night.”

The groups of student musicians and singers joined together for a finale of “Winter Wonderland.”