The Biggest PAA Show: A Night Full of Music

Some nights at PAA just stay with you. The spring music program was one of them.

The Biggest PAA Show lived up to its name in every way. A full house, an incredible lineup, and a stage full of students who have been working all year to get to this moment. Broadway. Movies. Original compositions. Music that moved people and reminded everyone in that room why the arts matter so much. God has gifted these students, and on nights like this one, those gifts are on full, beautiful display.

The evening featured every ensemble: Band, PASO, Alegria, Bell Canto, the Gospel Praise Band, and Choir. Each one brought something unique and beautiful to the night.

Dr. Carter’s leadership, planning, instruction, and conducting were nothing short of incredible, and the polish and excellence of the program reflected every bit of that. Mrs. Cooper led the Gospel Praise Band with joy and energy. Nick Minden graced the stage as guest conductor and then stepped to the microphone and sang his heart out in a solo accompanied by Dr. Carter. Helen Chang supported and accompanied throughout the entire evening. And Jesse Emery jumped in on the drum set, because of course he did.

Individual solos and guest performances from Makayla, Noemi, Rhys, Cara, Ethan, Hayden, Azul, James, Gabby, Chloe, Cori, Andre Wang, and Roylin Messenger each added their own special moment to a night already full of them.

Just before the final song, Dr. Carter paused to honor the seniors, students who have given so much to the music program at PAA and who will be deeply, genuinely missed. There were probably some happy tears in that room, and rightfully so. What a gift these young people are to this program, to this school, and to the God who placed music in their hearts.

What an incredible night. What an incredible community. So grateful for these students, their talent, and the hard work they poured into every single note.