Madison Contreras

Writer

Taking a break from learning contest music, the Marlow Vocal Program put on a holiday concert on Thursday, December 12 in the high school auditorium.

Students in grades sixth through twelfth that are involved in the Marlow High School Entertainers Choir, the MHS General Chorus, and the Marlow Middle School Choir were a part of the performance.

In an effort to expand the vocal music program at the middle school, students below seventh grade performed alongside the high school choirs for the first year since 2017.

With the concert’s theme being “Christmas! Everything Christmas,” the students dressed out in all types of holiday colors and ugly holiday sweaters.

Junior Rachel Retherford, Entertainers’ vice president and soprano vice section leader, explained how the songs brought about the Christmas spirit.

“Before the concert, I felt excited yet worried because I felt like I didn’t really know all the words due to learning so many songs,” said Retherford. “After the concert, I felt wonderful and happy. We had a great turn out, and the songs just left a magical feeling in the air that made me want to watch the Polar Express in my pajamas.”

While showing her contentment with the show, Vocal Director Sara Pitts noted the students have continually improved their singing ability since the beginning of the year.

“I am always so happy after concerts because the students are able to show everyone how hard they have worked and what beautiful music they can make,” Pitts said. “For this concert, my favorite piece was “White Christmas.” Hearing all of the voices come together is always such a fun experience for me.”

The Marlow Vocal Programs are now focused on preparing for contests, including large ensemble, solo and small ensemble contests.

Traveling around Oklahoma, the choirs will compete at Vocal All-State January 15-18, District Solo and Ensemble Contest on March 7, District Large Ensemble Contest on March 11,State Large Ensemble Contest on April 2-3, and State Solo and Ensemble Contest on April 23-24.

After the multitude of contests, the MHS Entertainers is set to have an exclusive Beatles themed performance for the high school in the first week of May.

This will be followed by another concert including all Marlow choirs that will be available to the public for one night.