By Maglyn Ivins
We hear about talented students at Steilacoom High School participating in state championships all the time — cross-country, swimming, wrestling, and cheerleading… but singing? Well, thanks to Steilacoom High School’s choir director, Lauren Whitham, and the many gifted voices in the SHS choir, our school once again proves that a small school doesn’t equal small talent with the recent participation at state level choir competitions.
In Ellensburg on April 26th and 27th, Steilacoom Mixed Quartet members Julie Landes, Maiia Spangaro, Philip Atwood and Jordan Leech represented red and gold at the 2013 Washington Interscholastic Activities Association and the Washington Music Educators Association State Solo and Ensemble Contest. Philip Atwood also performed in the solo contest. The Steilacoom vocal competitors learned a lot about themselves and their opposing choir teams while at state. Showing the ultimate Steilacoom “PRIDE,” Steilly’s choir performers sang with Passion, Responsibility, Integrity, Dedication, and Excellence.
“State was a beneficial experience because we got to see all the other talented groups and see where we stand amongst them.” – Jordan Leech,12th grade state participant.
The Steilacoom Mixed Quartet performance at Ellensburg wasn’t the first time the public had heard from the SHS choir. On May 9th, all three Steilacoom choirs, The Chamber Choir, Women’s Choir, and Men’s Choir, competed in the Washington Music Educators Regional Large Group Contest which took place at Bethel High School. Steilacoom competed against other districts in the Mountain Region, Clover Park, University Place, Bethel, Eatonville, Franklin Pierce, and Orting. To no one’s surprise, Steilacoom vocalists blew the audience away. All three of Steilacoom’s choirs placed. The Steilacoom Chamber Choir placed 3rd in the mixed division, The Men’s Choir placed 2nd in the men’s division, and The Women’s Choir placed 1st in the women’s division. Not only did Steilacoom take home the win but also learned how to better perfect their performances with the suggestions and corrections of the judges.
We here at Steilacoom High School are very proud of our choir performers. All of our musical success couldn’t have been achieved without the expertise of Ms. Whitham, and for that we give her much thanks.
“What I love about choir is how relaxing and fun it is. Ms. Witham is super fun, energetic, and just always wants the best for all of us. It’s just like being a family and we have an amazing support system.” – Maiia Spangaro,12th grade State participant.