CHENEY – In a symphony of success, 19 vocal virtuosos from Cheney High School are tuning up for the state championship, and choir director Annie Knight couldn’t be more thrilled.
“It’s amazing. We’re the only school on the east side with double digits at the state championship. This is amazing to have this many kids at state,” said Knight.
Sight-reading is the choir’s secret weapon. “It’s probably the hardest to do accurately, especially on the spot. That’s a tough one for singers,” Knight shared, hinting at the prowess that sets her choir apart.
Behind the scenes, it’s all about camaraderie. “They advocate for each other; they don’t see competition as divisive. Whether they nail it or flub a note, applause follows. It’s a vibe that resonates in the ensemble later on,” Knight revealed, emphasizing the supportive community within the choir.
The impact extends beyond harmonies and competitions. Choir life means scholarships and life skills. “They become leaders, facilitating events. Reading music is like learning another language; it fosters empathy, a great skill to develop,” Knight noted, shedding light on the broader educational benefits.
With a tight schedule, the choir doesn’t miss a beat in preparation. “They get the music in January, and by February, they’ve practiced 7-8 pieces, rehearsed for two days straight, tackling multiple languages and contemporary notations,” Knight explained, underlining the intensity of their training.
For those unversed in choir lingo, Knight advised, “Listen for musicality and expression, especially in classical pieces. We’ve even delved into indigenous music. Let the students take you on a journey through their performance.”
Save the dates! The state championship unfolds from February 15th to 17th, with vocal jazz hitting Capital Theater on the 16th and the symphonic and treble choirs rocking Davis High School on the 17th in Yakima.
In a crescendo of achievement, all but one choir member snagged a spot in the competition. “19 out of 20 qualified this year,” beamed Knight.
As Cheney eagerly anticipates the showcase of their musical prowess, the choir is primed to deliver a performance that promises to be a memorable celebration of talent, dedication, and community spirit. The stage is set, the notes are ready, and Cheney High School’s choir is poised to make Eastern Washington proud at the state championship.
Clare is an Eastern Washington University graduate and a reporter at Free Press Publishing.
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