Welcome to Spring Fine Arts Night!
Spring Fine Arts Night, 2026
Welcome to a truly special evening at Northwest Classical Academy.
This year, as our nation marks its 250th anniversary, we are honored to bring the arts together in celebration of America's remarkable story.
Tonight's program features a curated selection of patriotic music spanning generations, from timeless anthems and folk melodies to stirring orchestral works, that capture the spirit of a nation. Our student performers have poured their talent and heart into every note, and we are proud to share this milestone moment through the power of music.
We hope this evening leaves you inspired, moved, and filled with gratitude, for the gift of the arts, for our community, and for 250 years of a nation still singing.
Continue scrolling to explore details of tonight’s musical performances.
Audience etiquette plays an important role in making a school music performance successful and respectful for everyone involved. When musicians take the stage, silence must follow so performers can focus and the audience can fully appreciate the music. Guests should silence phones, applaud after the Conductor lowers their hands, and ensure that children remain seated with their parents at all times during the performance.
Thoughtful audience behavior shows support for the students’ hard work, dedication, and courage in sharing their talents on stage.
Vocalis
Ten Songs of America - arr. Douglas E. Wagner - Directed by Mrs. Cauthen
A medley of ten patriotic tunes including America; Yankee Doodle; The Battle Cry of Freedom; When Johnny Comes Marching Home; Columbia, the Gem of the Ocean; You're a Grand Old Flag; Lift Every Voice and Sing; America, the Beautiful; The Stars and Stripes Forever and The Star Spangled Banner.
I Have a Dream - Mary Donnelly, arr. George L. O. Strid - Directed by Mrs. Cauthen
"I Have a Dream" is a powerful, inspirational ballad with a flowing, expressive piano accompaniment. It highlights themes of peace, hope, and freedom. This piece shares its title with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s famous speech, which is fitting for this beautiful song celebrating unity within our nation’s borders, and beyond.
Cantemus & Vocal Elective
Shenandoah - arr. Andrew Parr - Directed by Mrs. Cauthen
This exquisite setting of the beloved American folk song has been artistically arranged for mixed or treble choirs of all ages. A beautiful piano accompaniment brings an independent voice to the arrangement, and the optional harmony part creates echoes, canonic imitation, and moving harmonies for a gorgeous effect.
Lift Ev’ry Voice - Edryn J. Coleman - Directed by Mr. Pagnozzi
Civil rights activist James Weldon Johnson's familiar text is given a fresh voice in this exuberant setting. Ideal as an opening selection, it has fanfare-like opening and closing sections and a central section representing the loud, rolling sea.
Spartan Jazz Band
Yankee Doodle Dandy - arr. Drew Zaremba - Directed by Mr. Paige
Yankee Doodle Dandy is a lively patriotic song written by George M. Cohan. Known for its upbeat tempo and strong American spirit, the song celebrates pride in the United States and became especially popular during times of war and national celebration. Its catchy melody and energetic style helped make it one of the most famous songs associated with Broadway and early American musical theatre.
C Jam Blues - Duke Ellington - Directed by Mr. Paige
C Jam Blues is a famous jazz piece written by Duke Ellington. Built on a simple two-note melody, the song became a showcase for jazz improvisation and creativity, allowing musicians to express their own musical ideas. As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, “C Jam Blues” represents the important role jazz has played in shaping American culture and identity.
Sinfonia & Concert Band
Freedom Finale - arr. Michael Story - Directed by Mr. Paige
Freedom Finale is a patriotic medley that combines the beloved melodies of America the Beautiful, Chester, America (My Country, ’Tis of Thee), and Battle Hymn of the Republic into a spirited celebration of freedom and American pride!
Dauntless Heroes - Michael Kamuf - Directed by Mr. Paige
This original composition, by Michael Kamuf, was penned with the idea of creating a fun and accessible piece for beginning full orchestra students to study and perform. The piece is a tribute to our first responders, whose service and sacrifice truly make them Dauntless Heroes.
Symphonic Band
Patriotic Parade Sequence - arr. Paul Lavender & Will Rapp - Directed by Mr. Pagnozzi
A rousing arrangement of three patriotic favorites - My Country, 'Tis of Thee; America, the Beautiful and Battle Hymn of the Republic
Chamber Orchestra & Symphonic Band
Simple Gifts - arr. Marsha Shapiro - Directed by Mr. Pagnozzi
“Simple Gifts,” a traditional Shaker melody, is cherished for its clear, humble tune and message of simplicity and grace. 20th Century American composer, Aaron Copland, famously incorporated it into his ballet Appalachian Spring, transforming the folk song into one of the most recognizable themes in American classical music.
Egmont Overture - L.Beethoven - arr. Richard Meyer - Directed by Mr. Pagnozzi
Egmont Overture was written as incidental music for Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s play about the heroic Count Egmont. The overture captures a dramatic journey from oppression to triumph, ending in a powerful, victorious conclusion that reflects the character’s ultimate sacrifice and legacy.
Chamber Orchestra, Symphonic Band, Vocal Elective, & Cantemus
If Ye Love Me - Thomas Tallis - Directed by Mr. Pagnozzi
If Ye Love Me is a clear and balanced choral piece by Thomas Tallis, known for its smooth melodic lines and careful use of harmony. Its straightforward structure and text setting make it a strong example of Renaissance choral writing often studied and performed for its clarity and blend.
Thankfully - Michael & Angela Souders - Directed by Mr. Pagnozzi
Thankfully is a contemporary choral piece honoring active military and veterans, written as a reflective work celebrating gratitude and everyday moments. Composed for developing choral ensembles, it features accessible harmonies and lyrical lines that help singers build tone, balance, and expressive phrasing.