The evening of Friday, January 25, the Williston community came together to celebrate a night of talent, and, in the process, to help those in need right here in Easthampton.

The Winter Warmer Concert, now in its third year, not only showcases a variety of talents from members of the Williston community, but also serves as a benefit for the Easthampton Community Center. The concert, coordinated by the school’s Community Service Club, in particular sophomore Anna Moran, showcased a diverse array of musical talent while also raising money and collecting coats and other warm winter items to donate to the Community Center.

Director of Choirs, Colin Mann, was excited to share what he and his performers had been preparing with the community.  He said this show is different from most other, more formal events, because “students prepare individually and in small groups without much faculty feedback,” and that this particular show “is a variety show showcasing many students who have hidden skills and do not necessarily participate in other ensembles and community forms of music-making at Williston.”

The show, which was well attended, featured a variety of different acts, including singing, ukulele, the school’s jazz band, and fingerpicked classical guitar.  There was also, in the spirit of the name, free hot chocolate at intermission.

Mann said in the run up to the show he was hopeful that all his students were prepared, but just as importantly, that they have fun.

Anna Moran, in addition to working hard to get people excited for the event, also performed at the show, providing piano accompaniment to her advisor, Ms. Cody, and her best friend, Brie Banas. Together they performed “Try” by Colbie Caillat.

Before the show, Anna said she was excited to share what she and her peers had been preparing and “to see all the performers do something they love for a great cause. It’s so great that a group of people can come together and create beautiful music to do something really effective and heartwarming.”

Mr. Mann, reached before the start of the show, said it would be a success because “all performers will enjoy the experience as they give back to their community and unify our campus community toward a common goal: helping others.”