The Pahrump Valley High School Auditorium was packed to capacity on Wednesday, December 18, as music lovers gathered for a thrilling evening of performances by the PVHS Concert Band, Percussion Ensemble, and the ever-energetic Garage Band, “Garage the Band.” Following the choir’s stellar concert the night before, this second night of musical festivities cemented the season’s spirit with a dynamic blend of rhythm, melody, and holiday cheer.
Before the show even began, audience members were greeted with warm smiles and the comforting aroma of hot chocolate, sold by band members raising funds for the music program. As the last cups of cocoa were enjoyed, attendees filed into what quickly became a standing-room-only auditorium, buzzing with anticipation.
The evening kicked off with a bang—literally—as the Percussion Ensemble set the tone with their Cadences performed in succession. Raven, Tadpole, Bacon and Eggs showcased the Battery’s tight precision. This was followed by Skeleton Key, a captivating piece performed by Luigi DeAngelis, Abby Hull, Zachary LeBlanc, and Kenneth Rudd. The ensemble wrapped up their set with Arrhythmia, a thrilling full-ensemble performance that had the crowd nodding along to the intricate rhythms.
Next to take the stage was Garage the Band, a student favorite that’s been making waves with their high-energy performances. The group, made up of Addie Allen on vocals, Luigi DeAngelis on drums, Emery Miller-Rocha on guitar, and Jeremy O’Neal on bass, reprised their crowd-pleasing cover of Panic! At The Disco’s “I Write Sins Not Tragedies.” The audience responded with enthusiastic applause, affirming that this band has quickly become a standout act.
The Beginning Band followed with their renditions of Frere Jacques (performed as a round) and a festive Christmas Mash-up. Their performance showcased the growth and enthusiasm of the school’s budding musicians, earning them cheers and encouragement from the packed house.
The Concert Band brought the night to a soaring crescendo with a holiday-themed repertoire. Their moving rendition of Little Drummer Boy, accompanied by members of the Beginning Band, resonated with the audience, setting the stage for more seasonal favorites. A Charlie Brown Christmas filled the room with nostalgia, followed by the whimsical magic of Selections from The Polar Express. The band closed their set with the spirited Trepak from The Nutcracker, leaving the crowd awestruck by their talent and energy.
The event was masterfully directed by Band Director Dr. Benjamin Gooch, whose guidance and passion for music were evident in every performance throughout the night.
The event was a testament to the dedication of PVHS’s music students and the power of community support. From the opening beats of the percussion ensemble to the grand finale by the concert band, the night was filled with memorable moments, warm smiles, and a sense of unity. As the night came to a conclusion, one thing was abundantly clear, that PVHS’s music program is thriving.
