The shopping atmosphere at The Block Northway was kept seasonally festive thanks to a free concert performed by the Slippery Rock University Clarinet Choir on Nov. 30.
The clarinetists were part of a free series of concerts and performances held during the holiday season at the mall off McKnight Road in Ross. Creating, connection, and community are core values of the student ensemble, which is then shared with others, according to director Dr. Amanda Morrison.
“Nothing in the world does this more than music. And so every year, we enjoy going into neighborhoods to share what we create and to connect with the public. This time of year is perfect for these opportunities, and we are grateful to The Block for welcoming us to spread some holiday cheer,” said Morrison, who also teaches applied clarinet at SRU.
The ensemble performed on the upper level of the mall, decorated for the Christmas and winter season.
The mall is hosting a series of free holiday-related performances throughout the season. Upcoming events include North Hills Cares’ “Community of Music — Fill the Sleigh” at 6 p.m. Dec. 5 and the North Hills Cares Kids Day with Santa 6 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 6.
Michele’s Dance Center in McCandless will perform at 5 p.m. Dec. 6.
The lineup also includes the Propel Performing Arts Academy at 6 p.m. Dec. 9, the Shaler Area High School Jazz Band and Chamber Choir at 6 p.m. Dec. 12, North Allegheny’s middle school eighth-grade orchestras at 11 a.m. Dec. 18 and the North Hills Middle School Orchestra at 6 p.m. Dec. 19.
A full lineup is available online at theblocknorthway.com.
For those venturing down to the mall’s first level, an impressive set of gingerbread house designs is on display, ranging from an icy ski chalet to a graham cracker version of the mall itself. Local community groups, schools, families and individuals were part of more than 90 gingerbread entries now on display through Jan. 4.
