Written by Naomi Seng and Nina Xie (Class of 2022)
Photography and Filming by Naomi Seng, Rachel Blythe, Thuy Nguyen (Class of 2022) and Ms. Ashley Huynh (Chaperone)
Video by Naomi Seng (Class of 2022) and Amy Liu (Class of 2023)

The air was overflowing with the cheer and enthusiasm of the DVGS students as they gathered outside of the Adventist Health Ukiah Valley center. It had been more than a year since the students last performed at the hospital, so this chance to share joy and holiday spirit with the COVID-19 first responders at Adventist Health was highly anticipated. With heartfelt gratitude towards the selfless effort of the health workers, the students were exalted to present a series of exciting performances: upbeat Christmas carols, traditional Chinese songs, and a Chinese dance.

After passing a COVID-19 screening, the students began arranging the stage and tuning their instruments, while the healthcare workers seated themselves in the courtyard of the hospital. The event began with the student MCs introducing the theme, Compassion Contagion.

The Chinese Orchestra prepared a mixture of both traditional Chinese songs and Christmas carols. They first performed “Pipa Language,” a tranquil and thoughtful song with layered melodies. Next, Hillary Tran, a junior with exceptional pipa-playing skills, presented the song “Dance of the Yi People.” The orchestra then performed four Christmas carols: “The First Noel,” “Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer,” “Joy to the World,” and “Jingle Bells.” The jolly tunes of the Christmas carols warmed the hearts of the health workers.

Next up was the high school band, who gaily presented their rendition of the all-time Christmas classic “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” Accompanied by the wonderful combination of the saxophone, violin, bassoon, keyboard, and both the electric and acoustic guitar, the lead singer delivered a passionate performance. The school band continued with a cover of the Disney soundtrack “Under the Sea,” which reminds us to cherish what we have and live in the moment with its lively rhythm. As the band concluded their rendition of “Mr. Sandman,” the audience applauded their joyous performance.

Finally, Chinese Dance showcased their elegant dance to the song “Daylily” and dedicated it to the healthcare workers for their devotion and service towards patients and the community.

As the event came to a close, the students again thanked the COVID-19 first responders for joining the celebration despite their busy schedules. Throughout the pandemic, they have intrepidly put their lives on the line to take care of patients, and in this sharing of music and dance, the students were able to express their sincere appreciation of the healthcare workers for their continuous dedication and effort.