Cathedral Prep students attended the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) District 2 Choir Festival at Warren High School from Jan. 12-14.

Those participating included seniors Nikole McLallen (Alto 1), Emily Morphy (Soprano 2), and Abby Rush (Soprano 1); juniors Josie Dufala (Soprano 1), Emma Kill (Alto 1), and Alex Junkin (Bass 1); and sophomore Chris Reitz (Tenor 2). Students qualified by being chosen by their director, Mr. Alesso, an MVP teacher.

Over the course of three days, students spent time in rigorous rehearsals to prepare for regions qualifying auditions, competing for a spot in their vocal section. They also performed a group concert with students from other nearby schools.

“The competition aspect of it is serious,” said Nikole McLallen. “We were given two of the few songs that are performed on concert night and only audition with a small excerpt of the piece. By the end of rehearsals, they announce the top ten chairs for each section. Those eighty kids advance to the Regional round.”

Josie Dufala, Alex Junkin, and Abby Rush qualified for Regions in February.

The event served as a way for students to not only hone their craft but also to socialize with students with similar interests and talents. The District Choir festival was a positive experience for the students, bringing “students who are vocally inclined to come together as one.”

“Everyone there is extremely nice and have some amazing voices,” said Alex Junkin. “I enjoyed all the time I spent with the people there, even when some of it was spent singing two and a half hours straight.”