School Christmas Concert

My wife, Anne, teaches K-8 music at St. Philomena School in Peoria. It's part-time (3 mornings a week) and she sees each class only once during that week.

Last night was her Christmas program and it was fantastic. The gym was filled and overflowing with parents, grandparents, siblings, aunts and uncles, cousins, friends, etc., and everybody loved it! Some of the little kids had costumes (elf hats and reindeer hats) and some had props (little drums and flutes) and all were adorable. In addition to the singing, the 8th grade played choir chimes and she had a group of carolers singing between some of the songs for transition. The beginning band also played transition music and did a great job. The pastor at St. Phil's, Father Greg, said this was the best Christmas concert he'd attended in his 12 years of pastoring! (now would be a good time to ask for a raise!!!)

Because it was in the gym this year, rather than the church, Anne did a lot of decorating to help liven the place up: four Christmas trees, lighted garland hung on the wall to frame the risers, and even a fake fireplace and rocking chair on stage for a Christmas scene during the intermission.

All the kids did a great job with all of their songs!!!