Instruments play, people sing, artwork is hung up all around the hallway: this is a clear emblem of Fine Arts Takeover, a week characterized by individuality, curiosity, and wonder.
There were Band, Orchestra, and Choir concerts this week, with Choir kicking off the celebration on Tuesday. Additionally, middle school students from Edgewood and Northwood participated in these concerts, with each concert having combined pieces to play to give them a taste of the Highland Park sound. The arts have also made their way into the holiday season. During Hot Cocoa Fridays, the school’s a capella group, MadCap, carolled for the school while treats were served.
Hot Cocoa Friday wasn’t the only landmark event. The Fine Arts assembly helped to showcase the talent present at HPHS, with videos showcasing visual arts talent and short films alike. Additionally, there were performances from Chorale, Collage, Theater, Jazz Band, Chamber Orchestra, and Wind Symphony sewn into the assembly.
MC Hosts Andrew Boiles and Vicky Colomé Bonazza, both Seniors at HPHS, helped to lead the assembly and interviewed students on “Why Arts?” Many of the students responded with answers that aligned in terms of the community surrounding the arts at Highland Park High School and how the tight-knit culture is sure to attract anyone. Creating art requires communication, trust, and most of all, vulnerability. Through the constant need for collaboration, students create community.
“Being a performer behind the scenes allowed [me] to see the amount of effort that goes into student performance” says junior Francesca Schneider, an avid performer in Highland Park High School’s Theater Department. She also felt “a sense of pride for [her] school’s dedication to featuring the arts.”
However, the arts don’t only bring community and collaboration – they bring student self-expression.
“[Fine Arts Week] shows the true interests and passions and talents of students,” junior Clara Gillis said. Gillis is involved in both theater and choir, and appreciates the aspect of the arts that uncovers student talent present at Highland Park High School.
From live concerts to visual showcases, this week was full of an ignited sense of community through creativity. It has helped to highlight the rewards received from artmaking. Students not only find others to bond with and trust in, but they also begin to develop their own identity through their art form. Whether it’s a guitar, jazz shoes, saxophone, camera, microphone, or script, this week has helped to encourage students to try something new.