I wrote a piece back in June 2014 that was critical of the technical presentation at the New Hartford HS Performing Arts Center. That post remains one of the most popular on this blog, ranking second in all-time views; it still gets a few readers each week. An update seems in order.

I attended the Perry Jr. High winter band concert last night, and I was amazed at the differences in just five months. The lighting was focused on the performers, not the audience; the floral arrangements on each side of the stage were also covered, a nice touch. Winter-themed patterns (snowflakes and a snowman) were projected on each side of the proscenium, adding a festive accent. The houselights dimmed on time and there were no difficulties with microphones.

The concert itself was very good – I particularly liked that students introduced every number, instead of the teacher/conductor. We heard three bands in a brisk 1-hour concert (the perfect length for this kind of performance.)

Bravo to all.