From the first rehearsals in August to a grand finale in our nation’s capital, the Benton Community Middle and High School choir departments have shared a year defined by musical excellence, community spirit, and non-stop energy.
The fall kicked off with a packed schedule of performances and prestigious honors. Our talented vocalists represented Benton across the state, with students participating in the WAMAC Choral Festival, the OPUS Honor Choir in Ames, and the prestigious IHSMA All-State Music Festival.
On campus, the department brought the community together for the Vocal Fall Concert and a heartwarming Veterans Day Performance. November also saw our performers trade their choir gowns and tuxes for costumes as they brought Bikini Bottom to life in a fantastic three-day run of the fall musical, "SpongeBob SquarePants."
As winter arrived, the choirs kept a busy pace. The Madrigal Dinner in early December transported guests back in time, while the Holiday Concert and Holiday JAVA showcased the department's versatility, blending classic choral works with jazz and solo performances. Our middle schoolers even took their talents on the road, caroling at Coral Ridge Mall to spread seasonal joy.
Once January hit, the energy shifted into high gear for Show Choir season. Our ensembles—Celebration Co., Jubilation Inc., and Illusions—traveled across the region to compete in competitions.
● Cedar Rapids Prairie
● Mt. Pleasant
● Waconia (Minnesota)
● Pella, Marion, and Liberty
A major highlight of the spring was the "Fill the Gym" Fundraiser, where all groups, including our fifth and sixth grade “Xhilaration”, joined forces for a spectacular night of dinner and music to support the program.
As the school year winds down, the focus shifts to reflection and celebration. The Senior Dedication Concert in May will honor our graduating performers who have given so much to this program over the last four years. Following the IHSMA Large Group Festival and Graduation, the middle school Illusions will celebrate their hard work with a well-deserved trip to Adventureland.
However, the excitement doesn't end with the school year. To cap off this historic season, the High School Band and Choir are heading East! From June 1st to 8th, our high school band and choir students will be traveling to Washington D.C. and New York City.
Congratulations to all our student-musicians on a spectacular year. We can’t wait to see where the music takes you next!
