by Taylor Massey
Just last week, the RHS Chorale earned straight 1 ratings at Bolivar High School’s Large Ensemble Festival. That group performance comes weeks after two members of the choir were selected for the Missouri All-State Choir. Seniors Kira Allen and Owen Hoge participated in virtual concerts early second semester, and were even able to sing in a live concert last month. Hoge said that there were also other changes that took place this year because of the pandemic.
“We have to use the band room to rehearse because the choir room doesn’t have enough for us to social distance in. We also have to wear masks, so it’s a lot more difficult to stay together than it has been in previous years.”
In a normal year, students would be given the opportunity to audition in person for All-State Choir after being selected for All-District Choir. However, all auditions this year were virtual. Each student was asked to record their audition. This let students record as many times as they needed to ensure that they were satisfied with their audition.
“It was easier in the way that you could take it again and again until you were happy with your recording, but it was almost more pressure because it’s easy to overthink something when you’re doing it repeatedly,” said Hoge.
Both students feel that choir has been a beneficial experience for them throughout high school. Allen said that choir has been able to help her outside of school and that she is thankful for the experience.
“Choir helps me be a better singer all around, which helps a lot with musical theatre and singing outside of school. This year has been challenging, but I’m very thankful that we have been able to do as much as we’ve done. I know a lot of other schools didn’t get to do anything this year. Being a part of the choir has been a great part of high school and I’ll miss it very much!”
