Over 30 students from Winfield High School showed off their quick memories for families and alumni this week.
According to new WHS Choir Director MJ Harper, 36 students performed music they had received just two days prior.
During the three days, singers at Choir Camp 2023 prepared music for future performances and auditions, developed leadership and teamwork skills, and had the opportunity to meet their new director.
“The most important piece of repertoire to get in their hands was ‘The Star Spangled Banner’,” Harper said.
Billy Bearden, collaborative musician, assisted students as they prepared music for Viking Voices auditions this summer as well as music for District and All-State Choir Auditions that will happen in October.
Several guests made appearances during the camp, including Dr. Mark Johnson, Brandon Wade, and Dr. Simon Hill. Students took surveys to analyze their learning, thinking, and working styles with Dr. Mark Johnson from Pittsburg State University and compared the similarities and differences throughout the ensemble.
Students also had the opportunity to work together in teams to discover strengths and highlight communication and trust, Harper said. Brandon Wade from Pratt High School and Dr. Simon Hill from Southwestern College assisted in adjudicating auditions and worked with sectionals to prepare them for a finale performance.
Families were invited Wednesday evening to see students perform repertoire they had prepared during camp.
Lexi Rogers, graduate of Cowley College, was the soloist for “I’ll Be On My Way,” one of the All-State selections.
“Singers are sure to be on their way to success after Choir Camp 2023,” Harper said.
