Varsity Choir members were recently recognized in winning first place at a local choir competition. 

“I feel like people should care about this win because lots of wins normally go to sports, not so much music,” Emma White ‘24 said. “This is a rare time where musicians can be recognized for their efforts and talents. Not only that, it can also boost involvement and interest in choir.”

Meeting at NC, the choir team got on the bus to Joliet West High School early in the morning on Feb. 10. It is estimated that between 10-13 different schools were at the event. The students arrived between 9-10 a.m., while the group left around 4p.m. They watched the other schools perform until 2p.m., when LT’s chance to compete was scheduled, she said. The students got to consume the full depth of this event, as they were the last group to perform for judges.

“I think people should realize this victory is important, mainly because this festival declared our choir the best choir in our area, which speaks volume considering many other talented high school choirs joined the competition,” Ian Enselman ‘24 said. “The fact that we not only won the festival, but also got a rating of ‘Superior’ when it came to our musicality is worth recognizing.”

 The varsity choir has gained lots of recognition during their competition, and put lots of effort into their performances, Enselman said. Varsity choir is not just practicing the music, it’s reading the music, feeling the dynamics, and translating the text into sound. Varsity choir takes what a student from lower class choirs has learned before and applies those skills to harder forms of music. Because of this, varsity choir tends to get the better songs. Vocal Directors John Musick and David Hartley guide students on their musical journey and teach them how to elevate their skills. 

“I feel we won simply because each individual member of varsity choir is an incredibly skilled musician,” Enselman said. “Each and every member blends well with each other, are well versed in choral music, and our directors, Mr. Musick and Mr. Hartley, are the most intelligent and dynamic directors I have studied under. Most of our victory is credited to their teachings. Also, a little competitive spirit never hurts.”

Musick and Hartley are not the only inspirations to students in the varsity choir: Enselman was inspired by his father and grew a love for singing. Choir is an important tool in the music industry, and can help students learn and grow their talents. 

“I got involved in choir because I love singing,” he said. “My father is a musician when he’s not a programmer and I have always been passionate about music. Choir felt like a chance to expand my talent and work. I’ve definitely improved musically, not just with my voice, but with instruments such as the piano or guitar.”