by Anthony F.

On December 10, 2024, at 6:00 p.m., everyone was asked to silence their phones. As the audience complied, the director of the high school band walked on stage and thanked The Junior School band for being there. As he walked off the stage, surrounded by Christmas trees, the lights dimmed, and the composer came on stage.

As the composer raised their baton, the students, all sixth graders, readied their instruments. A few seconds later, Christmas songs began to play. They performed Jingle Bells and 6 Note Santa. Additionally, they played section features, where specific sections of instruments performed.

This beginner band was impressive, so much so that Mrs. Whitty, the band teacher, said, “I have to say that my favorite part was the sixth graders because it was their first time playing in front of people, and they did well.” The sixth graders had first picked up their instruments in August and were already able to play at a high level.

After three songs, the sixth graders were ushered off the stage, and the Concert Band took their place. To assist with the setup, the high schoolers came on stage and helped rearrange the stage for the smaller Concert Band. The Concert Band performed Santa on the Rooftop (conducted by Macy Harmison, a student composer), Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, and Christmas March.

After two songs, the Concert Band traded places with the Symphonic Winds band, which was mostly composed of seventh graders but also included some eighth graders. During the transition, the high schoolers returned to rearrange the seats, ensuring a smooth and efficient process. The Symphonic Winds band played Carol of the Bells (conducted by Macy Harmison), Instant Christmas Concert, and the theme song from The Polar Express.

During the transition, the contributions of those who helped, such as the high schoolers, were acknowledged. Then, the Honors Band took the stage. They performed Snowscape, A Song of Hanukkah (conducted by Macy Harmison), On a Winter’s Night, and You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch.

Who Is Macy Harmison?

Macy Harmison is a student composer at the high school who also helps with compositions at The Junior. When asked about her, her teacher Mrs. Whitty said, “She started over at the high school in, I believe, September. She did her first half over there, did a great job, came over to us, and conducted a piece with the Honors Band, Symphonic Winds, and Concert Bands. She did a great job.”

By taking on this role, Macy gives other composers a break while honing her own skills. She is also paving the way for future students to take on similar roles.

When Mrs. Whitty was asked why she allowed Macy to compose, she said, “Well, I hope that more band directors open up their doors to young teachers because that’s the future of our profession. It’s important to me that I can give them some good knowledge and skills to take into their careers. And it doesn’t seem like you have an outside composer coming in.”

Macy’s work not only supports The Junior School’s band but also helps pave a path for future students to compose for their schools.