This past January, three of Southern Lehigh’s finest chorus students competed in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) District 10 Chorus Festival at Jim Thorpe High School: senior Nicholas Pires and sophomores Patrick D’Amico and Matilda Snyder. After completing a successful performance in January, all three will advance to the PMEA Region V Chorus from March 8-9 at Dover High School.
“I decided to audition for the PMEA choir because I was introduced to it by Mr. Wehr, our choir director,” D’Amico said. “It is a great opportunity to be a part of a huge choir of all the best singers in the area, and you get to challenge yourself with difficult but incredibly rewarding music.”
In preparation for the competitions, students dedicate countless hours to practicing both in school and in their free time. While the process may be challenging and nerves arise in anticipation of the competitions, students find ways to make light of the adversity.
“I mark up my music so much that it is barely readable, which reminds me of things to focus on when I’m in the middle of singing,” Snyder said. “Overall, I think the key is just to keep reviewing and practicing so much that the nerves start to fade away because I know that I’m prepared.”
While Snyder and D’Amico have been involved in choir for several years, Pires is new to the program.
“It’s been a blast so far working with Mr. Wehr and the other students on the fun pieces we perform during our concerts. I am optimistic for the other concerts to come,” Pires said.
The PMEA festivals serve as platforms to meet new people and create connections with other musicians from all over the region. Since many of the PMEA directors are college professors, students have a distinct opportunity to learn about careers in music from professionals themselves.
“It’s really motivating to be around so many other people who love music and are passionate about their craft,” Snyder said. “There is a bit of a competitive air, but the main focus is on celebrating the fact that we all made it here.”
Although they are ultimately there to compete, students agree that the potential to develop relationships with other people is the best part of the experience.
“You get to know so many people and create lasting friendships, which makes it even more rewarding when you are performing with them at the end of the process,” D’Amico said.
Given a successful performance in March, D’Amico, Snyder, and Pires will have the opportunity to audition for advancement to the state competition.
