On May 1 and 2, all qualified choir students will be attending the State competition at Mizzou.

The students practicing for this competition are perfecting their already known and performed songs.
In order to have qualified for the State competition, the students had to receive a one from a judge. This is based on a scoring system of one to five. Once the student or ensemble is judged and has received that one, they are qualified for State. It’s always an accomplishment for the students to see their names on the board.

“Our ensemble all went to the bulletin board and we saw we had a one,” senior Emily Meier said.” We told everybody, screamed, and called our parents.”
This year, 28 students will be attending the State competition which is much higher than last year’s total of 12. These dedicated singers practice twice a week for four to six weeks. To do their very best, the members of each ensemble or performing group must attend every practice and be very dedicated.
“If you really want to go to State, stay committed,”
junior Mary McCollough said. “It takes a lot of practice and it’s a lot of fun to go.”
When at the State competition, the students attend different classes for singing and have a certain performing time before a judge. Because expectations run high at this competition, students must demonstrate
more musical, State-level performances.
“They’re all really talented and motivated,” choir teacher Lorraine Smith said. “It’s something they want to do and work hard for.”
Competing at State is the highest honor of choir and after that there are no more competitions, but the students still work really hard until their last performance.
These qualified students enjoy there work and love competing with their peers.
“It’s always fun to bond with a lot of people and just have fun.” McCollough said.