Universally Spellbound

Jan 31, 2018 | All School, Fine Arts

27 Upper School Band and Chorus students represented Mount Vernon and MV Arts at their first performance at Universal Studios. Past tours have included Disney World and Dollywood.
CelebratingΒ Harry Potter weekend at the park, Universal welcomed thousands of fans to various workshops and experiences centered around the movie. Contributing to the theme, Mount Vernon took the stage in a unique performance combining jazz, a cappella, musical theater, and movie medley renditions ofΒ Harry Potter andΒ La-La-Land.Β 
Not only did students have the ability to perform for others, but they were able to experience various performers from jazz vocalists in Diagon Alley, to the live barbershop quintet β€œThe Rag Time Gals” at the Ride Through New York with Jimmy Fallon. The most notable fusion of science, innovation, and music was the performance by the world-renowned Blue Man Group. A combination of lighting, paint, man-made machines, videography, and pantomime combined to create an electrifying and inspiring musical experience that left many students inspired and wanting to know more about the possibilities of careers in the arts.
Band Director John Grove shares, β€œPerforming is a great way to bring people together. While on a trip like this, friendships and memories are made that students will reminisce about for years to come. I believe that experiences are more valuable and lasting when they are shared. I am especially proud of how much our students rise to the occasion when performing and am so very thankful for our strong MVArts family. ”
β€œI’m so glad that our students get to experience and share performances and artistry outside of Atlanta. Having the opportunity to perform for new audiences, adapt to new performance environments, and learn what musical opportunities exist beyond the walls of our school, is an invaluable experience that will have a lasting impact on the confidence and collaborative capacity of our students. Many thanks to John Grove for organizing this incredible experience,” reflects Matthew Neylon, Director of Visual & Performing Arts.Β