Choir workshop is a retreat for the vocal ensemble and chamber choir down in Ravensdale, Washington. It was led by Choir director, Becca Cantrell. The event focused on technique and bonding for the upper choirs. The event started on September 8th and ended the next day on September 9th. Along with the intensive rehearsals for the vocal ensemble and chamber choir, they had one on one training with guest composers. As well as a hard working weekend for the upper choir, there were various games and fun activities to help get to know each other within the choir.

“Choir workshop is something we use to jumpstart the year in terms of learning music and working on vocal techniques,” said Cantrell. “We also try to develop relationships within the group.”

A huge part of this success according to Cantrell was the students’ attitude.

“I thought it was so successful,” said Cantrell. “What I really liked about it is that people came down ready to work. Everyone had a positive attitude with each other and the work.”

Junior Alex Plastino attended the event and thought that it was one for the books. Plastino believes the event should be done every year to help all the newcomers have a smooth integration into the program.

“The event made a deep connection between the members within the program.” said Plastino.

Plastino believes that the friendship kindled during the retreat is already helping the choir members with their performances.

“If we just all showed up there and practiced without really knowing one another, it wouldn’t of been as personal and wouldn’t have had that feeling in the music that we all put in.”

Although it was a success, the event could improve upon in one category for next year: the turnout. Ms. Cantrell was enthusiastic and excited to talk about how much a success choir workshop was, but stated that a bigger turnout would be the only thing that would make it better next year.  How can the event be improved upon next year?

“A bigger turnout for sure,” said Cantrell. “The two upper choir groups  ( vocal ensemble and chamber choir) combined has around 70 students, with 40 attending of those 70.”

Cantrell and many of the members are asking for more people to attend next year to help with their vocal techniques, stay ahead of the game, and get to know their fellow choir members.

“My goal for next year is to have around 90% attendance between the vocal ensemble and chamber choir,” said Cantrell.