As part of a yearly tradition, all choir classes go around from classroom to classroom spreading the holiday joy by singing popular carols. This year is another year where happy notes will fill the halls.
Under the guidance of choir teacher Christine Tarrant, teachers can sign up for caroling sessions. Talented students in groups of 16, 17, or 22 then join together during the last week before winter break to lead peers in song.
“It’s a good way for the students to actually hear the choir,” Mrs. Tarrant said, “and it also gives the choir more performance experience.”
The tradition is a great way for many more students to take a break from stress due to school, work, and more with a fun experience.
“Sometimes there is so much pressure on us to get our assignments done.” Junior Abby Byambatseren said. “So, the choir is lifting up our moods and our spirits through their Christmas carols even if it is for just 10 minutes.”
The choir prepares for these carols by practicing a common list of festive songs as warm up to perfect their harmony. Members also meet up outside of classes for more practice time.
“Instead of sight reading and warm ups, we cover a couple carols a day, and we also have vocal tracks.” Mrs.Tarrant said. “We’ve got some talented students that can harmonize with us.”
The caroling tradition is also an opportunity to bring all of the different sections of choir together and have them harmonize these songs and get to know each other better. With choir classes having different block schedules, caroling especially helps first year choir students meet other people in the program.
“This is my first year in choir, which also just shows how inclusive the choir community is,” senior Abby White said. “because it is my first year, and I’m still able to connect with everyone else.”
Many students in choir enjoy singing the holiday songs and they look forward to being able to sing in front of their friends. Some of the students just love doing the caroling for a chance to be able to sing their favorite holiday songs.
“I really look forward to singing the religious songs that we sing,” junior Mary Esther Vaughan said. “One of my favorites is Silent Night.”
For any students who are wanting to join choir but do not know what choir does as a class, having the chance to see the choir perform provides a good example of what the class is like and helps many decide if it’s something that they would want to be a part of.
“Anybody who loves to sing can join the choir,” Mrs. Tarrant said. “No experience is needed.”
