On March 25, 2025, Trinity held a music department recital at Trinity Middle School. Music staff that around the district performed, displaying what they learned in their years of college before deciding to teach.
The recital is meant to show students their teacher’s abilities and allow them to watch their teachers perform rather than being taught by them for a day. The teachers mainly performed solos and duets that involved both singing and playing instruments. Each teacher got to choose the piece they performed.
Mr. Komula, choir teacher at the high school, sang “Some Enchanted Evening” from South Pacific the musical because “I love that song. That’s one of my favorite musicals and it’s just a really nice song.”
Mr. Hilty, band director at the high school, said, “I am going to play the Poulenc clarinet sonata.”
Mr. Daviduk said that “Mrs. Graham and I will be performing a duet entitled Rainforest by Kai Stensgard for Marimba and Soprano Saxophone.”
Some people may wonder how teachers balance their career with performances and their personal lives. For music teachers there is always some kind of performance coming up, so it’s something they learn to do over time.
Komula said he is able to balance teaching and performing: “Whether it’s in church choirs, whether it’s singing, doing musicals, or singing in groups like at holidays, like Easter and Fourth of July. I’ve sung with choirs, I mean, you just do it and find time to practice and get it done.”
Daviduk is looking forward to the recital because “I’m always excited to share music with others. It’s such a special opportunity for the faculty to come together and show the students how we continue to grow as musicians, just like they do. It’s also a lot of fun to collaborate with colleagues from different departments, and it creates a real sense of community here in the Trinity Music Department and community.”
The recital is meant to show students the work their teachers have put into their instruments and voices and show that it’s worth continuing to pursue what’s is inspiring. Hard work will pay off if the hobby is continued to be worked on.
Daviduk believes that “Music is such a powerful tool for building community and connecting people. I’m grateful to be a part of this school, where music is becoming such an important part of our culture. Whether students become professional musicians or simply enjoy listening to music, I hope they leave my class with a deeper appreciation for the art form.”
Those who perform must enjoy it to continue, and some wonder what the appeal of standing in front of an audience and performing is.
Daviduk mentions that his “favorite part is connecting with the audience. When I’m performing, I can feel the energy from the crowd, and it motivates me to give my best. It’s really rewarding to see people’s reactions, and knowing that they are enjoying the music makes it all worthwhile.”
Many people who perform have a routine to prepare themselves.
Hilty says, “I just drink a lot of water.”
Daviduk explains that “Before a performance, I like to take a few moments to relax and focus. I’ll usually do some deep breathing and remind myself to enjoy the moment. I also practice a little bit of the piece I’m performing to help calm any nerves. It’s really about getting into the right mindset before stepping on stage.”
Komula said he doesn’t have a particular routine other than drinking hot drinks sometimes and not eating right beforehand.
The steps they took to prepare is what made their performances ready for their audience. Those who attended the recital had a great time watching their teachers perform and hope the recital will continue to be an annual event.
