Exploring The Enchanting World of madrigal music

​By: Faith Mills, Contributing Writer

Leah Rolfson, the esteemed director of the Centralia High School (CHS) orchestra, is set to lead this year’s enchanting Madrigal performance: Dances With Windmills (an awkward love story).Transforming the cafeteria into a captivating dinner-theater, Madrigal at CHS is a resplendent showcase featuring a renaissance-driven play and a melodic masterpiece performed by the talented CHS orchestra and choir. The performance will take place December 1-3. 

With a storied history almost four decades, Centralia’s tradition of presenting Madrigal is a testament to the enduring cultural legacy of the school. Under Rolfson’s guidance, both orchestra and choir students invest substantial time and effort to ensure the perfection of the Madrigal experience.

The meticulous preparation begins early, with chamber choir commencing their harmonious journey in mid-September, while concert choir and orchestra kicked off rehearsals on October 26. The process includes dress rehearsals, late-night practices and the creation of intricate props, all of which contribute to the immersive and polished Madrigal production. Rolfson and her dedicated students epitomize the commitment to excellence, transforming each note and scene into a harmonious celebration of Centralia’s rich musical heritage.

An orchestra student involved in Madrigal, Karyssa McCubbin, says that her favorite thing about Madrigal is, “Either the getting ready process and laughing with friends while going and getting food, or singing Silent Night on Sunday and seeing all of the seniors getting emotional.” Many students like herself enjoy madrigal for what it is and the many memories that come along with it. Since Madrigal has become a yearly tradition for nearly forty years, parents and students alike are always full of excitement when the madrigal season comes around. 

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