BY MACKENZIE COLEMAN

The MHS Honors Recital and Tri-M Induction took place on Jan. 5 in the McClain Auditorium. Students, parents and faculty came to the event to experience the astounding talent that exists here at MHS. A balance of solos and ensembles that involved strings, brass and voice made for a varied and exciting show.

Meg Dowd ’14 was inspired by her fellow student Lyra Harada ’13. Harada performed a composition on the violin. “Lyra was especially impressive! It was amazing that she performed without an accompanist,” she said.

Dowd herself was also a performer in the recital, singing a duet with Jenna Doherty ’13. Recollecting her experience, Dowd commented, “It was rewarding to work alongside of someone and see progress as time passed. Watching the piece come together well was exciting.” Every performer at the recital practiced very hard and had to audition to gain a place in the concert. Therefore, all of the musicians were outstanding, and the selections were very well rehearsed.

Many music department students were present at the recital. Being able to hear their classmates deliver performances that they had worked on was satisfying and enjoyable. Alexa Barrett ’14 attended the recital and was thoroughly impressed. “I thought it was fantastic; it was a nice way for some really talented musicians to showcase their skills in front of their peers,” she said.

The recital was not just for music; it was also for honoring a prominent staff member in the MHS community for his outstanding support. After much planning by Tri-M student members as well as the Music Department administration, Dr. Robert Shaps was inducted as an honorary Tri-M member for his continual encouragement and attendance at every music department event. The ceremony was filled with kind words about Dr. Shaps and he was even surprised with a seat plaque in the auditorium that is engraved with his name.

The Honors Recital was filled with terrific music and heart-warming ceremonies. Stay tuned for the date of the next music department concert. All people are welcome and admittance is always free.