​Madrigal Singers, Class of 2019 at Symphony Hall

Central is home to three vocal ensembles: the Concert Chorus, the Advanced Treble Chorus, and the Madrigal Singers. Each of these ensembles challenge singers at various experience levels to engage in unfamiliar styles and genres of music for large and small groups of singers. All students are expected to perform in concerts and other events throughout the year, including recitals and graduation ceremonies. Students in the vocal program develop familiarity with music from all periods of time and styles from classical concert music to jazz, pop, musical theater, and world music. Advanced students regularly sing in the auditioned Western Massachusetts District Chorus and occasionally in the All-Massachusetts Chorus.

Mr. Gibbs's Contact: [email protected]

​Concert Band, Class of 2018 at Central High School

Central shines in its instrumental program, offering several ensembles which explore multiple different styles and genres of music. Students new to instrumental music typically enroll in the Intro Band to develop fundamental skills before enrolling in the Marching Band, Concert Band, or Jazz Band. Specialized classes are also available for Percussion Ensemble and Guitar. All students are expected to perform in concerts and other events throughout the year, including football games and solo-ensemble showcases. Students in the instrumental program are trained to be the most versatile instrumentalists in Springfield Public Schools. Advanced students regularly play in the annual UMass Honor Band ensembles.

Dr. Dandurand's Contact: dandurandr@springfieldpublicschools.com
Mr. Moore's Contact: [email protected]

​As You Like It, Class of 2017

Central has been known for its dramatic arts and theater program, which showcases students in several productions a year. Four levels of dramatic arts give students exposure to stage acting and a multitude of performance opportunity. Specialized courses are also available in Shakespeare performance and technical theater skills. The program also offers an annual Shakespeare production open to all students in partnership with Shakespeare and Company. Finally, the theater program produces the only annual musical in all of Springfield Public Schools in cooperation with the Vocal and Instrumental Music programs.

Mr. Doran's Contact: [email protected]

​Shrek the Musical, Class of 2019

The annual musical is a highlight of the performance programs at Central High School. Performances occur each spring and combine the efforts of all of the performing arts students and teachers.

Recent musicals include:
• Urinetown (2020)
• Shrek the Musical (2019)
• Annie the Musical (2018)
• How to Succeed in Business... (2017)
• The Sound of Music (2015)
• Hairspray! (2014)
• In The Heights (2013)
(and a lot more!)

Additional Photos of Shrek the Musical: click here! (Flickr, SPS)
Additional Photos of As You Like It: click here! (Flickr, Shakespeare & Company)