It was beginning to look a lot like Christmas at S.W. Snowden Elementary School. On Thursday, Dec. 13, students who participate in the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) Afterschool Program presented their second annual Winter Concert.  Staff worked with students in kindergarten through middle school who performed a few traditional and some not-so-traditional Christmas carols for parents, school staff and community members.

Music teacher and bandleader Benjamin Taylor presented parents with information about the benefits of music education on other subjects like reading and math. This presentation was followed by an instrument demonstration.

Students dressed in Santa hats and reindeer antlers followed the instrument demonstration. The students performed Christmas favorites like “Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “Frosty the Snowman” and “Deck the Halls.”

Students also showcased skills they learned in their afterschool music class by performing holiday classics such as “The Christmas Song” and “Silent Night” on hand bells.

The concert featured a special performance by the band J13 and their special guest vocalist Brenda Brewington. Bettie Davis, CCLC program d irector, said, ”It is always good to provide students with the opportunity to showcase some of what they learn during their time in afterschool programs.   Presentations like this promote a positive relationship between the school and community. “  The Afterschool Program at Snowden looks forward to continue building upon this relationship.