Under the passionate leadership of second-year Choir Director Ms. Strait, Cleveland’s Choir Program is making waves both on and off the stage. From auditions and performances to fostering teamwork and leadership, our choir students are achieving new milestones while growing as individuals and musicians. Here’s an inside look at the program’s highlights, achievements, and upcoming events:

Program Highlights (Fall 2024)

• Junior High (7th-9th Grade) and High School (10th-12th Grade) All-State Auditions: 15 students auditioned—a record number for our program!
• Circle the State with Song Auditions: 14 students are preparing to perform in Ponca City on January 31, 2025.
• Veterans’ Day Program: A heartfelt performance honoring local heroes.
• National Anthem Performance: For the first time, the choir proudly sang the National Anthem at a football home game.
• Winter Concert: A showcase of the students’ hard work and talent.

Program Participation

• Middle School Choir: 32 students strong and growing, showing incredible potential and enthusiasm.
• High School Choir: 15 talented singers bringing teamwork, camaraderie, and leadership to every practice and performance.

Despite being a small program, our choir is mighty in spirit and talent, and we are excited to see where their dedication takes them!

Looking Ahead There’s much to anticipate in 2025 for the Cleveland Tigers Choir Program:

• All-State Treble Chorus: Rebekah Sizemore will perform in Tulsa on January 18, 2025—a significant achievement for our school.
• Circle the State with Song: January 31, 2025, in Ponca City.
• OSSAA District and State Solo & Ensemble Contests: Dates to be announced.
• Solo and Ensemble Recital & Spring Concert: Stay tuned for upcoming dates.
• Future Contest Opportunities: We’re exploring new avenues to showcase our students’ skills.

Director’s Comments and Brags Ms. Strait shares her immense pride in the choir program’s progress:

• “The High School Choir, though small, is a powerhouse of talent, teamwork, and camaraderie. These students embody leadership and strive for excellence.”
• “Choir students are developing leadership, professionalism, and communication skills that extend beyond the classroom. Their dedication is evident as they arrive early and stay late to practice for honor groups and competitions.”
• “Middle School Choir members are learning not only to sing and read music but also to collaborate and support one another, stepping out of their comfort zones daily.”

More Than Music The Cleveland Choir Program is about more than just singing; it’s a community. Students are not only learning music but also integrating Science, Math, English, and History into their lessons. These experiences are enhancing their academic performance and shaping them into future leaders.

As Ms. Strait puts it, “We do not just teach music; we teach skills that help students grow into successful community members. Choir is a place to foster an appreciation for music, leadership, respect, and professionalism. Our students are preparing to conquer the world, now and in the future.”

A Visual Glimpse Be sure to check out the attached photos, including a fun picture of our 7th and 8th Grade Choir taken on picture day—just another example of the joy and enthusiasm radiating from our program.