The Tri-M musicians have filled rooms with melodies as they prepare for their spring recital on Apr. 15. During their rehearsals, every note brings the musicians closer together as the recital approaches, fueling their dedication and passion.
Every year, the Tri-M Music Honor Society, which stands for Modern Music Masters and recognizes students for their musical talents and high-academic performance, hosts a spring recital. At this event, members of Tri-M have the opportunity to showcase their musical skills.
Preparation is a significant part of the spring recital. Tri-M advisor Bonnie Hendricks says, “This year, the students are getting together to organize every aspect of the recital. We have students forming small musical groups and some students performing solos in the concert. We have a logistic team that is working on sound and lighting and audience accommodations.”
This recital offers various performances, showcasing the diverse musical talents. Sophomore Alice Levi says, “My group is currently working on a few pieces, but the songs we are definitely performing are ‘Die with a Smile’ by Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars and ‘505’ by the Arctic Monkeys.”
In addition to pop songs, the recital will also feature classical music. Senior Sadie Smith says, “I’m actually performing three pieces: the ‘Montagues and the Capulets’ by Prokofiev, ‘Dawn’ by Dario Marianelli, and ‘Speechless’ from Aladdin with my friend… A lot of people think classical music is boring, but I want to show them that there are some really fun classical songs to listen to.”
As the recital approaches, anticipation builds for the performers. “Sometimes I get stage fright, which makes me play worse than I usually can. This year, I’m hoping to negate the effects of stage fright through learning my pieces really well and finding techniques to calm down,” says Smith.
Moreover, participating in this recital offers numerous benefits beyond the performance itself. Levi says, “This concert is a great way to learn how to work with others and perform for new audiences. The musical skills of all the performers will improve as they are exposed to new songs and experiences.”
In addition to these benefits, Hendricks highlights other important aspects of being a member of Tri-M. “Our Annual Spring Recital gives the members of the Tri-M Music Honor Society a chance to learn the ins and outs of organizing a music performance and also display musical talents that they may have learned outside our school environment,” she says.
The objectives for the spring recital are clear. Hendricks says, “Our goal is to bring music to the community that they would not normally hear at a school music performance while giving our members an opportunity to display some of their varied musical talents.”
Tri-M is more than an Honor Society; it is a place where passionate musicians unite. Smith says,
Ultimately, Hendricks has long-term plans for Tri-M. “I hope that the Tri-M Music Honor Society is able to increase students’ appreciation of music in our High School and school community while also encouraging and helping younger students to start and continue with their musical talents throughout their time in the Kinnelon Schools. I also hope that we make a positive impact on current charitable opportunities and be a positive role model to younger students,” she says.
As the recital date approaches, Tri-M members continue to prepare for a performance that highlights their talent and effort.
