Last month, two MCPS choirs represented the district at the American Choral Directors Association Eastern Regional Conference in Providence, Rhode Island.
The Cabin John Middle School Advanced Choir, directed by Min Nam, and the Walter Johnson High School Madrigals, directed by Kelly Butler, were invited to perform at the conference, which brings together choral communities from across the eastern United States, including Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, the District of Columbia, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Vermont.
Selection for the conference is competitive. Ensembles undergo a blind audition process in which years of recordings are evaluated by a panel of judges. Only a small number of choirs from across the region are chosen to perform.
“Being chosen recognizes these choirs as being among the best in the country,” said Ashley Grantham, Coordinator, General and Choral Music for MCPS. “Plus, this is the first time I have seen two choirs from the same area/district.”
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For students, the experience provided an opportunity to perform on a national stage and connect with the larger choral community.
Yibela Gebretsadik, a junior at Walter Johnson, said the experience broadened her perspective on choral music.
“Just singing in that space truly taught me how big the choral world is,” said Yibela. “It isn’t just choral singing—it’s an umbrella for millions of people to come together and unite.”
Cabin John students also reflected on the excitement of performing and the memories made with classmates.
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“The main event for me was our performance,” said Michael Ahn, an 8th grade student at Cabin John. “It was special because we were able to showcase what we’ve been working on for months. It went well and everyone was relieved that there was a weight lifted off from the stress”
Hannah Hwang, an 8th grade student at Cabin John said the trip strengthened friendships and provided inspiration.
“The slight anticipation mixed with excitement when we walked on stage and the feeling of pride after walking off were truly special moments that I am so grateful to have been able to share with my peers,” she said. “Seeing other groups perform with such confidence is something I now strive for.”
Read the original article at mcps