Pocono News Section

Chorus Festival Underway for Students in Pike County

Chorus Festival Underway for Students in Pike County - Thursday, January 28, 2010 at 5:48PM EST

Reported by: Eric Deabill
Thursday, Jan 28, 2010 @ 05:48pm EST
PALMYRA TOWNSHIP, PIKE COUNTY - It is a big week for many high school music students across northeast Pennsylvania.

More than 150 of the top singers are spending three days at Wallenpaupack High School in Pike County. They are taking part in the District 9 Chorus Festival.

For the students, singing is not just a talent, it's a passion.

"This is huge for me. My grandma was a music teacher. My mom sang. We're a signing family. It's my passion. I love it," Elk Lake senior Mackenzie Frassen said.

Elk Lake, Tunkhannock, Valley View and GAR in Wilkes-Barre were just a handful of the 36 districts who sent students. Students not only get a chance to show off their skills but learn in the process.

"I think it's more of an honor for chorus members to practice and yeah, sharpen their skills and just do what they like to do," GAR junior Ryan Burkhardt said.

There is so much energy and enthusiam in the school some students were even singing in the halls.

"There are a lot of music lovers here and even people who music isn't there main thing -- but they like to sing," Wyoming Valley West senior David Vest said.

Not only is the chorus festival a lot of fun, it's also a lot of work. Getting good takes a lot of practice.

"It is definately a lot of work. I am like, last night was so exhausting, but it's all worth it I think," Mid Valley sophomore Gabrielle Gilroy said.

All of the students hard work will pay off. They will put on a concert Friday night at Honesdale High School. It will begin at 7:00 PM. Tickets are still available.