Droves of locals filled Fernie Secondary School on Tuesday, December 16 to hear the sounds of students and local vocalists alike.
The night began with bands made up of students from Grade 6 to Grade 9 with horns, percussion, brass and woodwinds powering through a set list that included everything from “Hot Cross Buns” to an infectious rendition of “Jingle Bells.” Music teacher David Pasivirta couldn’t help but jump in.
“That was a lot of fun,” said Pasivirta of the festive rocking moment. “I try to tell the kids that if you’re having fun, the audience is going to know it and enjoy it.”
He added, “I think that’s the key: To learn to play your instrument well enough or play music that’s simple enough that you can have fun with it.”
The night concluded with the youth and adult Fernie Community Choir, whose members have been practicing for their round of Christmas concerts since September.
“People are always happy that we have music here in town,” said Pasivirta, who was happy to note that the crowd seemed to surge with people during the second half of the concert, specifically to see the choir sing.
“I had people who were former members of the choir and people who were in the audience who showed interest in joining, and so I think they were received really well,” said Pasivirta of their performance
The Fernie Community Choir put on a second Christmas performance last Friday evening at the Arts Station.