Mahala’s Last Spring Concert

Like spring itself, Synergy’s Spring Concert is eagerly anticipated each year—along with daffodils, stone fruit, longer days, and—of course—spring vacation. Tons of work, weeks of rehearsal, and a tremendous outpouring of staff energy make this evening possible each year. This year was no different. From the alternately shy and ‘hammy’ kindergarteners, to the rousing 8th grade rendition of the Jackson 5’s “I Want You Back” with five solo performances, it was a whirlwind of excitement, primping, fancy clothes, scarves, cymbals, percussion, and harmony; a night to remember for many reasons.

This concert was special because it was Mahala Bundy’s last. Each year she achieves the miraculous task of shepherding our performers to the Herbst stage with the help of Sam, Jana, the 8th grade stage crew and many others. This year was particularly poignant. Although she works tirelessly all year long to elicit the best performances from our kids, the Spring Concert is always the pièce de résistance. In the stately Herbst Theatre, this year’s show was emotional. My son—an eighth grader—was on the stage crew and got to soak in a great deal of Mahala musical wisdom, both he and his brother—now a college freshman—were lucky to have Mahala’s Orff method magic for their entire time at Synergy.

Performing music from around the world, Synergy talent was on display. The combination of voice, movement, dance, rhythm, and camaraderie is what makes this performance unique. Even kids who fear performing or don’t feel musical get a chance to shine, along with those who love to sing, strum, and whirl across the stage.

The choir was sharp after many early morning rehearsals, and from the Pink Panther to the aforementioned Motown favorite, the concert was definitely a peak moment of the school year.

Big thanks, as always, to Synergy’s tireless music team, Mahala Bundy and Sam Heminger and we all wish Mahala a happy healthy retirement full of many more high notes.