Manhattan High School orchestra students performed serenades across Manhattan to spread Valentine’s Day cheer on Feb. 13. Students from Chamber, Symphonic and Concert Orchestra memorized four love songs and delivered live performances, along with flowers and chocolates, to recipients throughout the community.

“This is in part a fundraiser, but it’s more about demonstrating the power of live music and the responsibility of musicians to use their abilities to bring joy to others,” orchestra teacher Cody Toll said.

Students performed about 30 serenades during the school day, visiting businesses, homes and public spaces across town. Several performances were delivered to family members of orchestra students, and one serenade unexpectedly turned into a SubDeb proposal. Junior Kate Deaver thought it would be fun to surprise her boyfriend, senior Lucas Manly, both of which were playing in the serenades that day. 

“I thought it would be funny and would embarrass him a little, but it was also special because [the] orchestra is kind of how we met,” Deaver said.

Toll explained that the event allowed students to step outside the traditional concert setting and experience how music can directly affect people’s emotions.

“The day went really well. We played for all of our targets and delivered flowers and chocolates. The kids who played had a great time and made some good memories,” Toll said. 

Senior Kate Murdock, co-concertmaster of Chamber Orchestra, said the event helped revive a meaningful tradition while allowing students to connect with the community in a more personal way. 

“Every year we try to find ways to uplift and share our music with the community, and the Valentine’s serenades were a fun tradition to bring back,” Murdock said.

Preparing for the event differed from a typical orchestra concert, as students were required to memorize all four pieces and perform without sheet music. While the music itself was less technically difficult, Murdock said the memorization process was challenging.

“Seeing how much joy we brought to people made all the rehearsing worth it and reminded me why I love being part of this orchestra,” Murdock said.

Junior Solveig Chase, a member of the orchestra leadership team, said planning the event involved more than musical preparation. Students helped organize deliveries, prepare roses and chocolates, and coordinate schedules and transportation. 

“Music is universal, and being able to spread joy and connect with people through music is very special,” Chase said.

Chase added that reactions to the surprise performances varied widely, ranging from laughter and embarrassment to tears and gratitude. According to Chase, witnessing these reactions made the experience especially meaningful for performers.

Senior Dawson Raw said the event demonstrated that orchestra music does not need to be confined to a formal concert hall. 

“Being able to bring something special right to people’s doorsteps is pretty awesome,” Raw said. “Orchestra brings life and emotion to any space, not just a concert hall.”

By the end of the day, students had completed dozens of performances and strengthened their connection to the Manhattan community. The Valentine’s Day serenades highlighted how live music can serve as both a creative fundraiser and a powerful way to spread joy.

“It’s been a very cool experience to get to reach people who have maybe never been to a real orchestra concert,” Raw said. “Being able to bring something special right to people’s doorsteps is pretty awesome.”