Coffee House

Padua+Madrigals+perform+covers+of+songs+from+the+Renaissance+Era.+

Padua Madrigals perform covers of songs from the Renaissance Era.

The faint, distinct aroma of coffee and tea filled the air. Parents, students, and faculty members perused the Café, looking at the artwork and textile creations on display. Children waited in line anxiously awaiting to purchase cupcakes, madeleines, and other pastries to eat. Fairy lights adorned the stage, as well as a blue, white, and red banner to resemble the French flag. Miniature Eiffel Towers and vases of flowers were the centerpieces on the round tables. Students chattered amongst each other, nervously anticipating their performances. All these noises and commotion quickly diminished as the lights dimmed and purple stage lights washed over the first performers of the night, with the audience on the edge of their seats.

Padua’s second annual Coffee House was held on Sunday, November 15th. It was a night where Padua students were able to show off their creative and artistic styles, whether it was through artwork, textiles, dance, or music. Dozens of family members and other Padua students came to watch as the night progressed. Students in the chorus and the Madrigals performed together, and students also performed on their own or in a group.

The Padua Madrigals started off the night with a cappella renditions of songs from the Renaissance Era, exhibiting their musical talents together as a group. Senior Hayley Abernethy is a member of the Madrigals group. “Performing and being a part of Madrigals is so much fun and very rewarding. The girls that I am in Madrigals with are honestly some of my very best friends. It’s an amazing experience, and I think we’re a pretty awesome group.” Abernethy also performed “I Hate Myself for Loving You” by Joan Jett. Throughout the night there were many other solo and group performances, including covers of “Hey, Soul Sister” and  “I Can’t Help Falling in Love,” as well as many originals and a few songs from musicals.

The Chorus closed out the night with versions of “Rather Be,” “White Winter Hymnal,” and “As It Goes.” Freshman Sydney Kenton, who is a member of the Padua Chorus, has been singing and performing since she was younger, and she has loved every second of it. “Part of the reason I love music and performing is because people watch,” she states. “I love to be able to entertain people and make them happy. The Coffee House was really well executed. It was a great night and I hope to be able to participate again next year.”