The Aetos Center for the Performing Arts, located at Nixa High School, hosted a night of rhythm, harmony and connection, featuring The Filharmonic alongside our very own Nixapella team on Sept. 12.
As the crowd settled into their seats, Nixapella started the night with “The Bones” by Maren Morris, a performance that showcased the team’s growing talent and set the tone for the evening. With Nixa’s history of strong sound quality and captivating stage presence, it’s no surprise to me that Nixapella gave an outstanding opening number. The way the members actively listen to one another while controlling their vocals presented how inclusive and professional they are.
Chief Communications Officer for Nixa Public Schools Zac Rantz took the stage to thank the audience before introducing The Filharmonic with a short video montage of the group’s past performances. The excitement in the room was already buzzing. I could feel the breath of the audience’s whispers all around me.
When The Filharmonic stepped onto the stage, they opened with “Finesse,” a Bruno Mars and Cardi B hit. Immediately after, the group, consisting of Joe Caigoy, Jules Cruz, VJ Rosales, Trace Gaynor and Danny Cavero, introduced themselves. They shared their roots in choir and their passion for a cappella music. This personal touch gave the show a sense of intimacy; it made the audience feel connected to who they are as people and why the group matters to them.
Musically, the group was unmatched. The bass rang deep and smooth, beatboxer Cavero’s rhythms were sharp and professional, and the lead vocals carried effortless precision. What stood out boldly was the way each member blended with the others, not just technically, but with the joy and chemistry of true friends.
Their setlist was diverse, spanning generations and genres, from Stevie Wonder, Bruno Mars, the Bee Gees to Prince. At one point, vocalist and tenor Rosales sat at the piano while tenor Caigoy performed John Lennon’s “Ordinary People.” It made for one of the night’s most moving moments. It showed that they not only knew how to utilize their vocal strengths, but they could also skillfully incorporate instruments into their scene.
In an intermission between songs, the group paused to share the story of their name. They proudly introduced themselves as first-generation Filipino Americans. The Filharmonic reflects their heritage and their commitment to representing their culture on stage. As someone who is a first-generation Filipino American myself, this moment stood out most to me; it was powerful to see artists not only embrace their background but also celebrate it so openly with the crowd. They let it be known that identity and pride can be part of the performance itself. Loud bursts of applause from people of Filipino blood rang through the Aetos Center.
As the first half ended, the audience murmured with anticipation, eager for more. I saw chatting, smiles and excited laughter. When the second act began, Cavero, who was filling in for another member, stole the spotlight with a solo performance, displaying jaw-dropping vocal percussion skills. After, Cruz and Rosales joined forces in a high-low vocal duet that showed the group’s range and harmony. In a touching gesture, the group dedicated the song “Birds of a Feather” by Billie Eilish to the absent member who has just welcomed a baby. I believe that lets the deep sense of family that defines them both on and off the stage flow outward into the house.
Throughout the evening, The Filharmonic checked in with the crowd, asking if we were doing okay and making us feel like genuine people. I appreciated those moments because I felt they were truly in tune with the audience and cared for the people watching them.
The show closed with Nixapella returning to the stage to join The Filharmonic for Teddy Swims’ “The Door” and Earth, Wind & Fire’s classic “September,” ending the night on a high note. The energy and dedication of both groups never wavered, and it was evident that they were committed to giving the best performance possible from start to finish.
After the final bows, both groups greeted fans in the Aetos lobby, taking photos, sharing compliments and receiving hugs, leaving the audience with not only great music but lasting memories. The sense of excitement, admiration and joy lingered long after the concert ended.
The Filharmonic’s performance was more than just a concert; it was a celebration of culture, friendship and the unifying power of music. Nixapella’s contributions also shone, and it was an honor to see them share the stage with such a professional and passionate group. From seamless harmonies to personal storytelling, The Filharmonic proved why they are one of the most respected a cappella acts today. Nixa was lucky to host them, and judging by the cheers in the Aetos Center, the audience felt the same.
