The High School’s annual Ministock Music Festival raised $1,000 for the music program while showcasing an incredible lineup of students, alumni, and faculty talent during the afternoon’s event.
“Running a music festival like this is a tremendous undertaking, but the skills students gain --- from organization to performance --- will carry them far into college and their careers,” said faculty advisor Matt Christy. “Students’ dedication and passion were evident in every part of the afternoon, and I couldn’t be more grateful.”
Performances, introduced by Master of Ceremonies Drew Jashembowski, featured the eighth-grade group, “404 Band Name Not Found,” who impressed the crowd with their renditions of movie themes like “Jurassic Park” and “The Avengers.”
A strong alumni presence added a heartfelt touch to the festival. Hannah Veety and Mia Twyman captivated the audience with soulful singer-songwriter sets.
The alumni duo “Turning Forward,” featuring Grace Fang and Alex Norwood, brought an original sound featuring a bluegrass-folk flair which captured the attention of the audience as well.
Student performers made the afternoon shine. High School Teacher Dan Whiting’s Ukulele Club brought a crowd-pleasing energy with their takes on “Viva La Vida” and “House of Gold.”
The talented duo Cheyanne Kumar and Gia Gangi, known as “The Sweet Tarts,” delivered a beautiful performance of Coldplay’s “Sparks.”
Charlie Curabba’s group, “Velvet Lagoon,” presented an exciting indie-pop element that was new to the Ministock stage.
Another highlight came from Eddie Edwards and Gia Gangi, who reimagined Stevie Wonder’s “I Just Called to Say I Love You” with a fresh and unique arrangement.
Faculty favorite “The Specs,” composed of band directors Joe Horner, Tom Stickney and Matt Christy, lit up the stage with their performance, including a surprise rendition of the student-favorite “Aragon.” The piece featured standout solos by Mr. Horner on saxophone and Mr. Stickney on trumpet, earning them thunderous applause.
To close out the afternoon, Gavin McGinnis of the “Green Light Swing Kings” brought the house down with a touching rendition of “What a Wonderful World,” featuring Landon Straw on trumpet, providing a soulful and emotional finale to an incredible day.
“Ministock 2025 was not only a musical celebration but also a testament to what students can achieve when given the opportunity to lead and create,” Mr. Christy added. “ The bar has been set high for next year.”