Manado Independent School (MIS) has once again achieved glorious success with its 19th Musical Concert and 6th Art Exhibit involving students from all sections. Hundreds of spectators enjoyed the delightful performances at the MIS Auditorium on the nights of the 23rd and 24th of November 2022. The impeccable musical performances of the youngest to the oldest students amazed parents and the audience. This concert was an event that many looked forward to since the COVID-19 lockdown. Those who have experienced restrictions for the past two years found this year’s Music for Freedom theme suitable for the occasion.
The music chosen for both nights was electrifying. The songs from the 70s and 80s brought nostalgic feelings to the parents and guests present in the hall. The production was incredible and enthralling. Added to the ambiance of the concert hall were the cool stage lights that highlighted the costumes and outfits of each performer. Everyone had warm smiles on their faces as they performed. The songs were melodic and soulful, filled with emotions that were contagious to the hearers.
The choice of songs was carefully picked and arranged. Several of the songs were made even more stomping by collaborations of bands, kolintangs, orchestras, and dance moves that are delightful to hear and watch. The applause grew louder when the MIS Kindergarten students performed active and lively dances, such as the Freeze Dance and Katrili traditional dance. They also sang Yesterday’s Dream. These, and more beautiful renditions, were heard throughout the program. Of course, there was the inevitable encore after such performances, with the audience joining all participants in the oldie but goodie song ‘Final Countdown.’
The second night’s concert increased in energy when the solo and instrument groups performed “Sang Dewi,” followed by the Glee Class performing “Ojo di Bandingke,” rendered by elementary students with powerful voices and dance moves. The other students’ performances were no less interesting and entertaining than the previous day. Many were joining the vibe when the Waka Waka dance was performed as it gives the ongoing World Cup 2022 feel.
Meanwhile, the MIS lobby is decorated with lustrous paintings and other crafts. Student artists used different art styles to convey their ideas through their paintings and handiworks. The artworks and crafts are prominently displayed, and one cannot help but stop to take closer look at each exhibit. All these are pure artworks by students from all sections.
One of the parents, Mrs. Monaliana Manabung, who watched the performances of her two children, expressed her delight at the stellar performances of the MIS students. She said, “I’m impressed by this concert because the children looked so happy. During the pandemic, they only stayed home and did not get to have an event like this where they could socialize and be more motivated to be creative. The school is also quite adept at organizing concerts. There was harmonious coordination involving the stage production team, ushers and usherettes, stage lighting and sound systems managers, and the cohesiveness of the choreographer.”
This annual concert is for students to demonstrate their musical prowess and display the arts they have learned and made throughout the semester. The school utilizes this time and talent to give back to communities around the region, especially during this Christmas season-a time of giving and caring.
MIS is not only a school that inspires students to exhibit their skills and talents. It also emphasizes charity and doing good for others through giving. All proceeds of the concert are solely for charity work. This fundraising event will help the following recipients of goodwill, namely;
- Nazareth Tomohon Orphanage
- Merciville Remboken Orphanage
- Etty Tondano Orphanage
- Manado Tiddy Orphanage
- Nursing home Kasih Ibu Maumbi
- Al-Ikhwan Bitung Orphanage
and the needy communities around the neighborhood of MIS. With that in mind, MIS once again would like to convey its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has participated. The school is indebted to all students, especially the Music and Art Department, for organizing a successful concert for two full days. Additionally, the school thanks parents who support every MIS program. It includes everyone who has invested their time, effort, and money to make this event memorable and amazing. Until next year. Merry Christmas, everyone!
