Students dressed in 1920-30s garb to sing melodic tunes from early 20th century artists such as Thomas “Fats” Waller, during the choir’s annual pops concert.
Led by Choir Director Mr. Charles Harrison, the choir spent the 2024 – 25 school year rehearsing and performing music, with their most exciting performance being their April Pops concert.
“It was a magical night,” Mr. Harrison said.
He said he considers a multitude of factors when picking the all-important music for performances each year, one being what type of experience he wants his students to have by May.
“I am contemplating allowing the students to choose the music for the 2026 pops concert,” he said.
The choir has many layers of management: the president is senior Marisa Boué, the vice president is senior Lauren McMackin, the student in charge of warm-ups is junior Irene Pletcher, and the various leaders of each vocal section.
“The choir leadership makes the ensemble run like a well-oiled machine,” Mr. Harrison said.
Senior Alejandro Ibarra spent his past four years as a part of the choir and led the tenor section this year.
“I guide my group through new repertoire,” Ibarra said,
Ibarra is multi-talented, having 12 years of piano experience and seven years of guitar experience.
“My ability to play piano has proven to be a major asset in helping my section rehearse,” he said.
The choir members spent their block periods rehearsing, and those who were a part of Encore, the choir group that requires students to audition, had an extra rehearsal on Tuesday nights. Many dedicated students also choose to practice on their own time.
Mr. Harrison has been known to often say: “You can not cram for a music performance. It has to be in your blood,” when discussing his choir’s rehearsal strategies.
Mr. Harrison and Ibarra encouraged students to get involved with the choir and appreciated the work and courage that goes into every one of their performances.
“We would love to have larger audiences at our concerts to witness the amazing talent and performances we produce each semester,” Mr. Harrison said. “And if you love making music with friends, look no further,”
