The Upper School Symphony and Chamber Orchestra performed in Rugby Auditorium as part of the Performing Arts Festival on April 25. At the end of the performance, Symphony Director Mark Hilt joined the Chamber Orchestra to perform a piano solo in the final piece, commemorating his final concert as the Symphony Director after 20 years.

Performing Arts Teacher Neli Nikolaeva said she appreciated being able to see Hilt end his last concert.

“ Hilt was the piano soloist in that final [piece] for the program to recognize his 20 years with our community,” Nikolaeva said. “It was the most special end to an incredible season of music making. I [also] want to [express] a huge congratulations and thank you to all our seniors and I hope to be seeing them as alumni in a lot of the concerts in the future.”

Hannah Fong ’26, who performed in the concert, said one highlight of the concert was the acknowledgment of the graduating seniors.

“I liked when Hilt and Nikolaeva had seniors stand up and we got to recognize them.” Fong said. “It was the last time we’ll play with the seniors, which was sad but sweet.”

Zoe Vourgourakis ’26, who performed as part of Symphony, said she was moved by Hilt’s performance at the end of the concert.

“One of the most impactful parts of the concert for me was when Hilt joined the chamber onstage for that solo piece,” Vourgourakis said. “I thought it was a beautiful addition and [it] brought me to tears, especially because they acknowledged the seniors before that. He had a super loud ovation and it was a really heartwarming moment to end his final concert.”