RUMFORD — Members of the Mountain Valley High School band and chorus are beginning the finishing touches of preparing for their spring concert on Tuesday, May 21, at 6 p.m. in Muskie Auditorium.

To get an idea of the huge amount of effort these students put into their music, junior Anthony Boucher said, “I am most excited to perform songs that we have worked hard to perfect. The Mountain Valley High School band and chorus have put forth countless hours of rehearsal. We only have one night to perform to an audience, and I want it to be memorable. This is a way to show the community how hard we have worked.”

For some students the hard work leads to excitement, sophomore Leah Perry said, “I’m really excited about the whole thing in general! Mr. Prescott [MVHS music director] chooses the best songs for us, and arranges them in away that we all enjoy. They are a lot of fun to perform and perfect. The thing I’m most excited for is my solo. This year is the first year I have chosen my own individual songs, and individual parts in the group arrangements. I am really nervous, but super anxious.”

Perry is a member of the chorus and often sings the national anthem as part of a group during many sporting events.

What motivates these young people to practice and work for months for one night on stage?

Perry enthusiastically explains, “I get pure joy. Music is my passion. I love to sing! Working with the people in my class is so much fun, and I wouldn’t have become such good friends with them if it wasn’t for the class. I also get extra skill. I learn a lot from Mr. Prescott and the upperclassmen. I like to take in as much advice from them as I can to hopefully be the best vocalist I can be eventually.”

While the joy and passion are important, a beloved teacher also helps.  “I am able to express myself through the songs I play. I love learning about music and I love to play my saxophone. Another part of it is that I have an amazing teacher who is always eager to help me improve,” Boucher said. “He makes learning music enjoyable.”

All that is left to the story is a plea for the public to come and enjoy what the students offer.

According to Boucher, “People should come to the concert if they love music. They need to come and support us if they want to hear some awesome music by talented students. I promise you that it would be well worth your time.”