Slippery Rock University’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of choral talent was on full display as four local high school choirs came together for the annual ChoralFest on March 27 at Swope Music Hall. Students had the opportunity to celebrate the joy and community found in choral music, while also being able to receive constructive feedback on their performances.
The following high school choirs were on campus:
- Rocky Grove High School’s Select Choir under the direction of Jodi Hoover.
- Franklin High School’s Madrigal under the direction of Sarah Gilbert.
- Karns City High School’s Concert Choir under the direction of Haven Joseph-Lyon, a 2024 SRU graduate with a degree in music education.
- Cranberry High School’s Select Choir under the direction of Preston Yoder.
SRU music faculty served as judges, as well as acting in roles focused on coaching and workshopping with students. All attendees, including the SRU Choirs, joined together to conclude the day by performing a concert for the public. Edryn Coleman, from the University of Maryland, served as the guest clinician and conductor.
The event was hosted by the American Choral Directors Association’s SRU Chapter, along with SRU Choirs. SRU Choirs President, Chrystal Sircely, a senior music education major from McKees Rock (Sto-Rox HS), and the SRU ACDA Vice President, Elizabeth Hixon, a junior music education major from Renfrew (Seneca Valley HS), both delivered opening remarks at the start of the event.
For more information about SRU music programs, including choir ensembles, can be found on the department’s webpage.
See image gallery below with photos by Reilly Vroman and Zachary Burkovich.
