Most people are happy to find out that their family is growing, but more people means less space and more responsibilities. 

This year the choir program has seen a significant increase in enrollment. The directors must prepare to teach students what they need to know, while also balancing the needs of returning members. 

“We increased by half of what the program was last year,” Main Choir Director Andrea Loer said. “And as far as numbers go, it’s huge.”

From 100 to 150 students, this growth might bring challenges that the directors need to be prepared for. 

“This year we are doing a lot of trying to involve the older members in guiding the younger members,” Loer said. “To give returning members some of that responsibility and leadership so they are still continuing their skills but in a different way.”

While the directors are preparing for the new students and balancing the needs of other members, they have come up with a way that is beneficial for all. Not only will this assure that younger students are learning, but it will also allow older members to go farther in their skills and responsibilities. This technique has many students excited for the new year. 

“The amount of kids is good because we are growing and they’re hungry,” Choir President Andrea Rodriguez said. “A lot of the students are really excited which is good.”

With almost everybody on board, the choir program has grown not only in numbers, but in commitment. All the students, new and returning, are ready to give it their all this year. The directors will have a bit more on their plate this year compared to past years, but they too are fully committed. 

“Regardless of how many people are in the room,” Assistant Choir Director Victor Torres said. “We’re gonna teach whoever is in front of us and go back to the original plan of reaching every student and supporting them.”