CCH hosts division-wide Arise and Shine concert

By Ry Clarke - Lethbridge Herald Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on October 22, 2022.

Herald photo by Ry Clarke St. Francis Choir sings "Humble and Kind" with conductor Chris Hartman as part of Holy Spirit School Division's Arise and Shine concert this week at Catholic Central High School.

Holy Spirit Catholic School Division held a concert Thursday night with a performance from a multitude of schools within the division at Catholic Central High School.

The performance saw choirs and concert bands perform their talents before audience members to celebrate the arts and reaffirm student work.

“It’s a division wide concert,” said Danielle Christensen, music teacher at CCH and event organizer, speaking at the event on Thursday. “Schools from all over the division are bringing their students to perform and celebrate the Fine Arts. As we are starting to come out of COVID, the Fine Arts are seeing a renewal and rejuvenation, and we wanted to have some time to celebrate that as a division.”

Talents from staff and students included CCH, Ecole St. Mary, Father Leonard Van Tighem School, St. Francis Junior High School, St. Joseph School in Coaldale, St. Patrick Fine Arts School, and St. Paul School.

“While we don’t have all the schools in the division participating, we do have 300 students performing,” said Christensen. “Because of the size of our gym we have had to limit guests to two-per-student (with others joining online). We are really fortunate to have this much support from the school communities.”

In a show of unity and working together, the night ended with a performance from all as the Holy Spirit Choir sang Shine, Jesus, Shine.

“At the end of the evening we are going to have a mass number with all of the students involved,” said Christensen. “I think that will be a highlight for many.”

Coming up with the idea for the event six months ago, Christensen wanted to put on an evening that would encourage students.

“It is extremely important for students to have pride in what they do,” said Christensen. “To have a chance to display their talents, especially in the fine arts, because students really blossom and shine, finding value in the fine arts when they can express themselves in a different way.”

With a hope to continue this event, Christensen hopes to work again on events that highlight the fine arts.

“I do hope that it happens again, and I hope it is just as well received. We will continue to see growth in the fine arts in this division,” said Christensen. “We appreciate all of the administration, parents, community, and students for joining us this evening. Seeing the value in what the fine arts can bring to a student’s life.”

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