Kaitlyn Cuevas and Leigha Hougland
For the Salisbury PostThe South Rowan High School honors chorus will perform March 2 on the stage of Carnegie Hall in New York City.
The 35-member chorus got the opportunity based on its consistent superior ratings in state competitions. Such a record opens the door for a school to audition for many things.
This is the sixth time in 18 years that the South Rowan chorus has been selected to be part of the National Youth Choir. The organization chooses 10-12 schools nationwide, who join together and perform a concert at Carnegie Hall.
This year, the choir will be directed by Dr. Andre Thomas from Florida State University.
Jan Gore, the South Rowan chorus instructor, expressed excitement that her chorus has earned such a prestigious opportunity. She said she has enjoyed past experiences with her singers at Carnegie Hall.
“It’s great to see the students’ jaws drop when they see Carnegie Hall for the first time,” Gore said.
Experiencing the culture of New York City is an equally important aspect of the trip for students, Gore says.
During the five-day trip, students will get to see a Broadway play, as well as famous attractions such as the Statue of Liberty.
As the trip nears, the chorus still needs financial assistance.
The cost per student is $875, and additional costs include extra activities, an additional night in New York and money for the charter bus.The chorus hopes to raise around $10,000 through various fundraisers and activities.Donations can be made to the South Rowan chorus. Individual students may be sponsored as well.
For more information, call Gore at 704-857-1161.
Kaitlyn Cuevas and Leigha Hougland are interns for the Salisbury Post.