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The NS choir recently delivered an excellent performance at the state competition held at the Libby Gardner Concert Hall in Salt Lake City. The group impressed audiences and judges alike with their emotional, polished performances of several challenging pieces. Many students described the experience as inspiring.
“It is a beautiful hall. The acoustics in it are amazing, and it’s just such a good experience that I think everybody should get to have,” Cole Booher said.
He recalled a memorable moment during warm-ups when, “a guy came in and told us that we were giving everybody chills,” Booher said.
He expressed particular pride in their rendition of Dies Irae.
“It was packed full of emotion and powerful and loud,” Booher said.
Madeline Anderson also shared positive reflections about the event.
“I think state choir went really well. It was one of our best performances for all of our songs in total,” Anderson said.
She highlighted the unique qualities of the Libby Gardner hall.
“It’s made entirely out of wood, so it reflects the sound really well,” Anderson said.
She also spoke about the emotional depth of their performance of Farewell.
“It’s so beautiful and hits close to home at some points because you have to say farewell to some people sometimes,” Anderson said.
Mary Hood, one of NS’s choir directors, praised the students’ improvements and dedication.
“It’s been really satisfying to see the growth of the choir students… to watch their improvement and hear their improvement and how they learn proper singing skills,” Hood said.
Hood reflected on her time with the program.
“I loved it there. I love the kids and working with Mr. Kidder has been great because he’s so good at what he does,” Hood said.
This year’s state performance also marks a turning point for the NS choir, as it will be Hood’s final season with the school. She will be leaving at the end of the year, and her departure has been met with both gratitude and sadness from students who’ve been impacted by her teaching. Her leadership and care have helped shaped the choir into what it is today, and her absence will be deeply felt.
Emma Wallace said the experience was both rewarding and unifying.
“We were able to accomplish great things and come together to do a performance that we were really proud about,” Wallace said.
She agreed with Booher that Dies Irae was a favorite among choir members.
“We all put the most energy into it,” Wallace said. The state competition was more than just a performance; it was a culmination of dedication, passion, and teamwork. The NS choir’s showing at Libby Gardner showcased not only musical skill but emotional connection, and it left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance. With Hood’s farewell and a strong finish to the season, the choir moves forward with confidence and pride, ready to build on the legacy she helped create.
