Note: A version of this article will be published in the Concord Bridge.

PRISM, described as a “non-stop musical kaleidoscope” of sound, with over forty student-led ensembles, will grace the Concord Carlisle High School’s Auditorium stage yet again for it’s annual concert, with shows on Friday, December 19, and Saturday, December 20th, at 7 PM for both performances.

“Creative, fun, and a night to remember!” is how CCHS Chorus senior, JianNan L’Angiocola, describes Concord-Carlisle High School’s student-led annual winter concert, PRISM.

“I heard that it isn’t really like a normal concert. It’s really interactive,” says CCHS Orchestra member Ella Goldberg, a freshman violinist who will perform in PRISM for the first time this weekend. 

“Lots of different groups means exposure to different genres, from classical pop to movie soundtrack, and each group requires different skills and techniques,” explains CCHS Chorus senior, Alba Calcedo-Martin. “It’s been enriching to explore those themes with friends.” 

CCHS Director of Bands & Orchestras Christopher Noce calls PRISM, which will be performed in the high school auditorium at 7 p.m. on Friday, December 19, and Saturday, December 20, “a super fun and unique opportunity that allows students to choose, prepare, and perform repertoire of their choice.” 

Noce emphasizes that being in charge of the program also “means students taking risks and taking ownership.”

CCHS Chorus director, Sarah Grina, says PRISM offers students “autonomy, agency, and accountability” and allows them to perform pieces “that would not be possible in our larger ensembles.”

For many performers, the student-guided structure is one of PRISM’s biggest draws.

“I’ve always really enjoyed PRISM, and I really enjoy making groups,” says violinist Joanna Stearns, a junior in the CCHS Orchestra. “I really like how it’s a student-led performance, so it allows students to have a chance to shine.”

Or, as Wind Ensemble senior flutist, Sofia Hughes puts it, “It’s made by us.”

Still, this independence comes with challenges. 

Scheduling is a major issue. “Everyone’s been really busy around the holiday time … It’s been really hard to gather everyone together,” Stearns admits. 

Additionally, students devote significant time and effort to preparing for their performances. “It’s been very slow,” says L’Angiocola, “but you get more into it as you get closer to the day.” 

Hughes agrees, remarking how “It’s a lot of work, but it is really rewarding.”

Grina says there is “more [excitement] than ever from the CC Chorus side,” especially with the “inclusion of more voice-centric acts.” 

Noce adds that “there are a lot of new ideas and new students involved on both the performance side and tech side, which adds a layer of excitement and a fresh perspective.”

Among the many performances to look forward to are an a cappella rendition of Billy Joel’s “Piano Man,” a flute arrangement of “Beauty and the Beast,” and “One Day More” from Les Misérables, which features all CCHS seniors from the Band, Orchestra, and Chorus. In keeping with tradition, both nights of PRISM will conclude with “Sleigh Ride,” bringing together musicians from the Band and Orchestra for a festive finale.

L’Angiocola shares that as a performer, PRISM is “fun because I get to gather with others and do our own work.” 

Having watched PRISM twice from the audience, he says, “It’s really cool to see music fill up all corners of the auditorium.” 

Tickets, priced at $15 for adults and $10 for students and seniors, are available at the door or in advance at ccinstrumental.org