Pal-Mac Select Choir Returns from the UK
We had the good fortune today to host the director and members of Palmyra-Macedon’s award-winning Select Choir. They recently took a trip to the United Kingdom, and came to tell us about their trip, and some of the preparations they made for it.
Jill Davis, the choir director, cleared up any confusion right from the start by explaining that no, the 4 students with her today were not the entire choir. The full choir is comprised of 28 high school students, all of whom auditioned to be admitted. In fact, they continue to audition for placement within the choir and for the opportunity to be featured in solo parts. The four members with us today were Tallis Polashenski, Ben Cook, Jeremy Unterborn, and Abby Snelling.
The entire group visited England, Scotland, and Wales over the Easter break. Unlike a previous trip to Europe, this one was close to perfect. The students began their preparations in August with rehearsals. As the school year continued, their homework included research into the United Kingdom. In addition to learning about the history and culture of the lands, their research informed their decisions on what sights to see and places to perform. The group performed in 5 different venues including Bath Abbey in England and St. Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh. They were well-received in all their performances.
It wasn’t all performing, though. During their “off-duty” hours, they were able to sight-see, visiting castles and abbeys and the Tower of London, among others. They took in a performance of “Stomp” in London, and spent some time shopping in London and in Edinburgh. At a performance venue in Scotland, they learned some traditional folk songs and folk dances, which they very much enjoyed.
The ensemble is a close-knit group to begin with, but during this trip they were together on average 14 hours a day. This provided even more bonding experiences, such as waiting at the terminal for the various flights to come in, each plane bringing in a few more students. For about 80% of the choir members, this was their first airplane trip. Then there were the bus rides, and time at the hotel, filled with card games and Mad-Libs.
The members of the Select Choir demonstrate dedication, enthusiasm, and professionalism every day, and we in this community were fortunate to have them represent us to our neighbors across the pond. You have a chance to see them perform at their Spring Concert on June 4 at 7:30pm in the High School Auditorium.