Brooke Shiber ’28
Apr 24, 2026
On Friday night, April 17, Jazz Band, Magalia, Octet, and Strings performed their last concert of the school year: the Spring Pops Concert. For some, it was their last Mercersburg Academy performance, which evoked emotion from students and faculty alike.
The same day the school received news of two tragedies–the passing of a recent young alum and a staff member. As a result, an underlying tone of grief lingered throughout the concert. Strings conductor Michael Cameron addressed this honorably and beautifully. The first piece that Strings played, “Theme of Schindler’s List,” featuring Lisa Wei ’26 on the violin, was dedicated to the memory of those who had passed. Cameron said that this was the least he could do. James Brinson, conductor of Magalia and Octet, said that this was one of the most moving moments of the concert. “Lisa played so well,” he added.
Next, Strings played “Bella Cubana,” an Afro-Caribbean tune. “Keystone,” which Cameron described as “fast and angular,” concluded the repertoire. Grace Jin ’29 echoed this sentiment, stating, “It was, at times, hard to stay on tempo, but we got used to it and I enjoyed it a lot.”
After Strings, the Jazz Band took the stage. Stevie Wonder’s “Isn’t She Lovely” was a big hit, featuring solos from Matthew Kobrick ’28, Zara Kimotho ’28. Maddie Mamoudis ’27 stated that this was one of her favorite songs from the setlist because it is “popular and nostalgic.” She added that she also enjoyed playing and learning “Lester Leaps In” by legendary saxophonist Lester Young.
Throughout the Jazz performance, Emily Guzic ’28, Wil Kipe ’27, Harry Cameron ’26, Phuong Vo ’27, and other members of the performance groups were also featured as soloists. Mamoudis shared, “Harry is insane at the drums; our band will miss him dearly, as well as all of the other seniors like Alli Caretti.” Cameron himself mentioned, “I thought I’d be used to playing by now, but I still get a little bit nervous… all the pieces are difficult and challenging, but Mr. Beni makes them enjoyable.” According to Jazz Band conductor Shami Beni, “[The] music was challenging and we had to dig deep. But once we got it, it was so fun to play.”
A cappella groups Magalia and Octet concluded the evening’s program with lighter pieces, standards like “Moon River” and “Mr. Blue Sky.” While Rebecca Robinson ’28 enjoyed performing “Mr. Blue Sky” the most, William Luo ’27 preferred “Moon River” as “it had a very gradual flow to it.” Luo also shared insight into the rehearsing process: “Practicing was definitely challenging because we had only four guys, but everyone is dedicated, which made the process easier.” Three altos from Magalia volunteered to join the Octet because of a shortage of members. On this matter, James Brinson said, “I’m always thankful and proud of how our singers step up to the plate when it comes time to perform… Both groups do a great job at blending with other voices to be a part of something bigger than themselves.”
The Spring Pops Concert was one full of emotion, defined by lingering grief, but also gratitude for the school’s community of loving students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Cameron said, “We can never forget how large a role the audience plays in a successful performance.”
All three conductors expressed pride in their students. Cameron noted it was “a real honor to work with them.” Beni said he was “very proud of the kids overall.” And Brinson remarked he was “so grateful for their dedication.”