CFWE: A Testament to Brentwood’s Musical Prowess

10 January 2024Christian M, Privett ‘26

In the stunning space that is the Killy Theatre, the stage was set for a phenomenal night of pianists, singers, bands, and more. The night was opened with “It’s Beginning to Look Like Christmas” by Brentwood’s String and Wind Ensembles as each musician had the exceptional opportunity to perform before the Brentwood community and the general public, to showcase their immense musical talents and their hours of hard work in preparation for the Concert for a Winter’s Eve.

The CFWE is the year’s first concert, taking place a week before the Winter Break. Wrapped in a warm and hospitable atmosphere, the night of the concert proved to be a memorable one for the audience and the performers. Nana L, Hope ‘26, stated “Since I am new to Brentwood this year, this was the first time I performed in front of the Brentwood audience. I was nervous backstage but the audience was enthusiastic, which helped me with my confidence. Also, it was amazing to see just how many talented artists Brentwood has.”

In the first act, Mimi D, Allard ‘24 – no stranger to Killy stage stardom—used her prodigious talent with the violin to captivate the audience with a mesmerizing interpretation of Edward Elgar’s “Salut d’Amour” alongside the accomplished Mr Phil Newns. The duo’s performance was a seamless blend of Mimi’s virtuosity and Mr Newns’ expertise. Awestruck at the passionate play of notes, the theatre was spellbound.

In the second act, Zheng Y, Privett ‘24, and Finn W, Rogers ‘24 performed an alluring guitar duet of Duke Ellington’s “Caravan”. Beneath the bedazzling star-like lights and radiant spotlight, Zheng and Finn’s performance greatly portrayed their immense knowledge and expertise in playing the guitar. “We worked very hard to be on the stage. This was our last Concert for a Winter’s Eve so we wanted to make it memorable. It was really an amazing opportunity to be on stage in front of everyone” said Zheng.
As the final notes resonated throughout the Killy Theatre, concluding this year’s Concert for a Winter’s Eve, it had been undoubtedly clear that the concert was a major success, leaving a mark on the students and staff and the public who’d come to witness Brentwood’s musical prowess. Ms Alex Toporowski stated “I thought the instruments were especially impressive – especially in the classical pieces – and I definitely can’t wait for the next concert”.

Christian M, Privett ‘26

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