Faiss Middle School choir celebrates holidays

Fri, Dec 5, 2008 (midnight)

The Faiss Middle School choir is hosting a holiday concert at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday inside the school gymnasium. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the event is free and open to the public.

Faiss Middle School is at 9525 W. Maule Ave. near the intersection of Fort Apache Road and Sunset Road.

The choir program will feature approximately 250 students in grades six through eight divided into three ensembles -- beginning, intermediate and advanced -- with each ensemble performing three songs.

The music will range from classical to jazz and pop, said choir director Amanda Hallum, and the event is expected to draw about 500 guests.

The advanced ensemble's performance will include a "holiday blowout" that will feature special guest appearances by Frosty the Snowman, Rudolf the red-nosed reindeer and Mr. and Mrs. Claus.

Mrs. Claus will even sing a disco version of "Santa Baby," Hallum said.

"The kids love it," she said. "They have three serious pieces earlier in the show, so this will be their chance to let loose."

Three musicians, including Faiss Middle School Band Director Jeff McCracken playing bass guitar, will also accompany the choir.

"We have students from every possible background and every possible social group," Hallum said. "We feel like a family."