For our music students, Spring is a time of showcasing their talents and all their hard work at various festivals and assessment.
Mr. Ladd’s first period KHS Band students achieved the highest possible rating ( I ) in their performance level at the BCPS Solo/Ensemble Festival. “I am very proud of the fine performances given by the Concert Band and the String Orchestra for our annual BCPS Assessments. We hosted Dr. Brian Schneckenberger, who administered the Assessment and took time to work with the students in each group. I believe one word that he used several times was ‘Excellent’.” shared Mr Ladd proudly.
Cassidy Butler was recognized for her flute solo and Maria Hernandez Rivera, Tim Faponle, and Raymond Washington were recognized for their mixed trio performance.
On Saturday, April 27th, the Kenwood HS Jazz Ensemble participated in the Naptown Jazz Festival at UMBC. They, along with 10 other schools from all over Maryland, performed, got adjudicated, had master classes with members of the Army Jazz Ensemble and UMBC Faculty, and attended an evening performance of the Army Jazz Ensemble.
KHS students received an “EXCELLENT” evaluation. The following students received a Special Certificate of Merit for their outstanding solo performances: Jona Abuel, Godspower Ifeanyichukwu, Dominick Linares, Nicholas Smith, Jayden Fields, and Sage Holden.
If you couldn’t catch the Spring Choir concert this year you missed out! Ten KHS alumni come back to join us for the concert! The after school honors group did a rendition of Hit the Road Jack with the KHS Jazz Band. “They did fabulously!” shared Ms. Chappell.
Along with Spring music concerts, with Spring also comes Kenwood’s annual play performance. This year they performed the play Little Women. Louisa May Alcott’s timeless tale captures the essence of growing up and grappling with identity in a way that resonates across generations. Set against the backdrop of the Civil War, the March sisters navigate the challenges of adolescence, love, and loss, while striving to find their place in the world.
At its heart, Little Women is a celebration of the human spirit and the bonds of family. Through the trials and triumphs of Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy, we witness the universal struggle to define oneself in a world that often imposes limitations and expectations especially onto women in society. Each sister embodies a different facet of womanhood, yet together they form a tapestry of strength, resilience, and sisterhood.
“In our production, we seek to honor Alcott’s enduring legacy while bringing a fresh perspective to this beloved story. We invite audiences to rediscover the joys and challenges of growing up. As we follow the March sisters on their journey of self-discovery, may we be reminded of the importance of embracing our individuality, cherishing our relationships, and finding the courage to pursue our dreams,” shared Kenwood’s Director Ms. Taylor.
Ultimately, Little Women is a testament to the power of love, hope, and the spirit of youth. It is my hope that our production will inspire audiences to reflect on their own journeys of growth and identity, and perhaps discover new truths within themselves. Together, let us celebrate the enduring legacy of this beloved classic and the timeless themes it continues to illuminate.
Kenwood’s production featured seven graduating seniors in the show: Elizabeth “Axel” Smith, Titan Richardson, Mekai Clemons, Keyona Johnson, Dakota Clarke, Mahogany Allie, and Elijah Dangerfield.
