Solo and ensemble sing for excellence

A lot of hard work and dedication are the few things that are a part of the Howell choir’s solo and ensemble and all of this will show up at their first festival, which is on this Saturday, November 12.

Solo and ensemble is a student ran event where many talented soloists and small ensembles (groups) come to perform to display all the work they have done throughout the year.

The best part is that solo and ensemble is run by a steering committee, which is led by senior Hope Hersh. “I’m the heart and soul of the whole thing,” she remarks. She is behind all the magic. She has to make sure everything goes smoothly for the Solo and Ensemble festivals. Plus, she is put with the task of choosing who will get to be behind it all next year.
In order for students to participate in it, they must do a variety of things. A student is required to participate in a choir class and be involved in the Michigan School Vocal Music Association (MSVMA). Home school students are also eligible if they are registered in a choir class. Once a student is all through this, they try their best to have a great performance at the first solo and ensemble festival.

This weekend it is the Solo and Ensemble for Musical Theater. This is going to be the second year that Howell High School will be hosting it and students all over Michigan will be attending. This event will have six judges, unlike the usual twelve to eighteen solo and ensemble usually has. It will take place at Parker Middle School. Students who attend are required to perform two songs, either as a duet or by themselves and song choice is very important. Last year’s event was a huge success.

The second solo and ensemble event won’t take place until the last Friday and Saturday of January and will be hosted at Howell High School. Usually around 1500 students attend.

Students in solo and ensemble benefit well. They get to show off the work they did. Plus they can gain a lot of community service hours. However, that’s not the reason why they do it.

“All the hard work pays off and the judges appreciate it,” says Hersh.

These judges, who from come all over the state, are well taken care of when they come to evaluate the performances.

Many parents provide hospitality for these judges, along with food and snacks, which is a big help.

Students in solo and ensemble work hard and have a lot of fun. They love to perform in front of the judges doing something they love.

“It’s a big bonding experience,” states Hersh, “You find people who have similar interests as you and make new friends.”