One of Valparaiso’s most beloved traditions returned to Valparaiso High School (VHS) on Monday evening, as the school hosted “This Is Our Story,” Valparaiso Community School’s massive Christmas concert. Over 1,000 students, with representatives from every school in the system, showcased their artistic and musical talents, welcoming the holidays with a spectacular setlist.
The tradition is decades long, and many students take part in the concert year after year. Some begin with a performance in the elementary school choirs, and years later join the VHS Wind Ensemble or orchestra. Supportive parents, family members, and friends packed the VHS gym, welcomed by a snappy holiday prelude by the VHS Jazz Ensemble and Christmas carols sung by the VHS Varsity Singers.
“We have the whole cross-section of age groups, from fourth graders to seniors, all making music together,” Miguel Rosario-Vega, Music Department Chair and Director of Bands at VHS, said. “It’s always fun to see the growth of these students, and to hear how many of them remember those younger years. I’m excited to see these students show their ability and hear the response of the audience, and have all the fun that goes with it. I’m looking forward to seeing the smiles of the kids doing their thing.”
“This is Our Story” is a celebration of the students’ creative achievements, and also includes an art gallery of works that span almost every genre imaginable. Self-portraits, landscapes, even a sculpture or two – students from every school in Valparaiso put their art on display.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity for these students,” Chelsea Grzelak, art teacher at Parkview Elementary and Thomas Jefferson Elementary, said. “It gives them a great sense of personal pride in their work and helps the kids feel good about themselves. It lets them see they do make beautiful art and are extremely talented, and can celebrate each other. It’s so rewarding to see them blossom, learn, grow, and discover new types of artwork. As a teacher, it’s absolutely incredible.”
Taking part turns into a tradition for the students. Even though their performances take a lot of extra work and practice, performing in front of such a huge crowd is a rare opportunity that they do not want to miss.
“This is my fourth year, and it's super exciting because this is my first year in Varsity Singers,” Magdalena Gootee, a VHS student, said. “I really love it. The whole atmosphere is amazing. I’m most excited to perform ‘Have Yourselves a Merry Christmas.’”
As a senior set to graduate this spring, this year’s rendition of “This is Our Story,” will be Gootee’s last as a performer.
“I will probably cry tonight,” she said. “This is a big event for everyone. All of my siblings are in this too, so it’s almost like a family event.”