Deep Run students in both the vocal and instrumental music department are busy preparing for concerts and performances this winter season. These free admission performances occur throughout the year at school, for local events and even at long-distance venues. The band performed in the Deep Run auditorium on Dec. 6; the vocal music performance will take place on Dec. 20 at 7 p.m.

Together, the band has two classes of concert band, a wind ensemble, saxophone quartet, and a percussion ensemble. The saxophone quartet is a self-taught and student run band and during the concert, it will have their shining moment with its very own number.

“Most students see band concerts as boring and only the parents go to see their children, but you might be shocked on the quality of their performance,” Instrumental Music teacher Jimmy Pennington said. “There’s something in it for everyone.” Deep Run band has earned the honor band distinction repeatedly. In 2007, the band performed in London on New Year’s Eve.

For the choir, 150 DRHS students will perform, and 40 students from Shady Grove Elementary School in a group called Soundsations will perform two songs: one with Belle Voci and one with the show choir. Vocal Music Director Amy El-Khouri said that many students in the Deep Run choir were inspired to sing when they were in Soundsations themselves as Shady Grove Elementary students.

The performance will include a mix of holiday selections and winter-themed songs. In one song every year, alumni are invited to come back and sing. Three student-run quartets also will perform during the winter concert. Students will have the opportunity to hear all of the music department perform on Thursday, Dec. 20 during the two “winter celebration” assemblies for the whole school.