In our spring edition, we shared how our high school choir program has grown in numbers and excelled at the state level in recent years.

The growth in enrollment can partly be attributed to the strength of the programs at the elementary level. There’s one program in particular, Honor Choir, which has made strides to increase choir skills of students at a younger age.

Because it is not possible for all four elementary schools to have students meet consistently during the school day, the Honor Choir, which is for students in fifth and sixth grade, practice in the evening once a week at Turner Middle School. These practices begin in September and culminate in a Turner Honor Choir performance in November.

The Honor Choir is directed by Erin Highland from Turner Sixth Grade Academy and Cassandra Garcia from Oak Grove Elementary. Although attendance at these evening practices create additional responsibility for the participants and their parents, the energy in the room is all excitement.

“We start with some fun warm-ups to get our bodies, voices, and minds ready to sing. After that we work on the five different songs we are preparing to perform in November. Students are given either Part 1 or Part 2 to learn and we work on a lot together during our rehearsal time. Many singers also practice their parts at home,” said Garcia.

While involvement in this program helps build interest in choir at the secondary level, it’s mutually beneficial for all involved. Participation in music ensemble creates bonds among participants that are strong, supportive relationships similar to those on athletic teams. Students feel like they are a part of a larger goal and feel powerful ownership over their performances.

About student involvement in any choir program, Garcia shared, “Music is one of the most accessible and attainable hobbies that provides important connections to our community, culture, and history.”

Bellamy Barrow, a sixth grade student in the honor choir loves singing. “What I like most about honor choir is the people and the community - everyone is so kind and makes it a wonderful experience.”

You can show your support for the Turner Honor Choir by attending their performance at Turner Middle School on November 19th at 6:00p.