Vivace, the MS classical vocal ensemble, traveled to Anaheim in mid-May to sing at the Heritage Festival, an annual celebration of middle school choirs. Each choir sang three pieces of contrasting style for a panel of three judges and then received a clinic from one of the judges. “There are choirs from all around the country at this festival, so the students will have the opportunity to listen to other groups,” said the group’s director, Jennifer Cowgill, before they left.

The group performed “Sound the Trumpet” by Henry Purcell, a Spanish piece called “La Manana in Segovia” by Amy F. Bernon, and a medley of spirituals that included “This Train,” “Get on Board, Little Children” and “River Train.” The festival was held in the performing arts building at Fullerton College, and the students attended an awards ceremony in Disneyland with stellar results.

“The choir received a Superior rating from the adjudicators,” said Cowgill. “This is a huge accomplishment for these kids since this is the first time that I know of that a middle school choir from Harker has attended one of these festivals. I think that their confidence is much higher now! Because of this rating, we now have the opportunity to perform in one of Heritage’s gold level invitational competitions in either New York or Chicago next year.”