Candlelight Winter Concert 2021

12/17/2021

On December 12, 2021 the Vermont Academy Community gathered in the Nita Choukas Theater for the annual Candlelight Winter Concert. This formal concert is held before Winter Break and the traditional candle dance is framed by musical productions by our instrumental and vocal groups. As Head of School Dr. Jennifer Zaccara said, "The candle dance itself, the ensemble performances, the choral pieces, and readings all made for a meaningful celebration of our multi-talented students and faculty." Photos can be found here.

Erik Sorensen ’23 opened the event with a reading of "The Shortest Day" by Susan Cooper. He was followed by the Vermont Academy Combined Chamber and Jazz Ensembles’ performance of Vince Guaraldi’s “Linus and Lucy.” The jazz ensemble then performed Chris Sharp’s arrangement of “Greensleeves” followed by James Horner’s “Somewhere Out There.”

Abby Hawkins ’23 then read “Winter Trees” by William Carlos Williams. She was followed by the chamber ensemble’s performances of “Let All Good Folks Rejoice” and “Coventry Carol” as arranged by Performing Arts Chair Mr. Steve Cady.

Declan Ginty ’25 read "Ice" by Gail Mazur. He was followed by the Vermont Academy Dance Team led by Ms. Amy Lanterman. The team performed the Candle Dance to Sia’s “Snowman,” followed by an original dance choreographed by Nya Smith ’22 to will.i.am and Jamie Foxx’s “Hot Wings.” Nya was joined on stage by Eliza Asante ’22 and Colby Casey ’22.

Bryce Boyd-Tucker ’24 read Bryce Boyd-Tucker read “Shingebiss & The Winter Wind” by Jenni Cargill-Strong. He was followed by Vermont Academy Vocal Ensemble’s performances of “Hineh Ma Tov” and “Carol of the Bells.”

Head of School Dr. Jennifer Zaccara read a selection from The Chronicles of Narnia. She was followed by the combined Vermont Academy Music Ensembles for performances of “Winter Wonderland and “The Vermont Academy Evening Song.”

The Vermont Academy Chamber Ensemble is comprised of:

Mr. Steve Cady, Director

Bryce Boyd Tucker ’24, Violin

Vic Gao ’24, Horn

Ana Hernandez-Merkle ’25, Flute

Brian Lee ’23, Cello

Suki Lambert ’25, Cello

Caitlin Masure ’25, Flute

Sydney Palmiotto ’24, Clarinet

Morgan Studin ’25, Flute

The Vermont Academy Jazz Ensemble is comprised of:

Mr. Steve Cady, Director