In March of last year, a few students approached the music teaching team about the possibility of organizing a talent show. Knowing one hadn’t been scheduled for the spring, and that planning one for the future could be an awesome opportunity to spotlight students as musicians and leaders, we designed two middle school arts electives that would help bring this student idea to life.
On Monday, thirty-five middle school students worked collaboratively to present the first-ever BDS Music Showcase (click here for a video recording) to a packed audience in the Palandjian Arts Center. Students from Mrs. Bettinelli’s BDS Music Showcase class demonstrated what they learned throughout the trimester about planning and hosting a musical event. Students chose the venue, promoted the night, prepped the acts, communicated about rehearsals, created the set list and run of show, designed programs, wrote the script, set up the lights, staged the chairs and stage, hosted, monitored stage transitions, and worked backstage! Students from Teacher Cotner’s Audio Tech class exemplified the importance of careful planning and trusted, focused teamwork as they set up microphones, cables, monitors, and speakers for the night and ran the sound board for all our performers and hosts.
All of this incredible work made for a truly memorable night. As audience members came into the PAC, they immediately noticed colorful lighting, a BDS Showcase signed made by Teacher Conroy’s Innovation Lab class, candles scattered on the stage steps, a flipped orientation of chairs and stage, and could see students bustling about finishing up soundchecks, straightening chairs, and prepping for the performance. As the student musicians took the stage, it was clear that they were prepared and thrilled to stand in front of a full house and share their diverse and wonderful talent and work. The night was completely student-led. Showcasing the learning process and talent of these middle school students in this way felt special and right. Thank you to all who came out to support this event and our students!
We’ll be having another BDS Showcase in June. We hope to see you there!
