VALDOSTA — The Viking Cantors from Lowndes High School are excited for their debut Show Choir performance. Director of Choirs Dr. Jennifer McQuade is thrilled to present this show to the community of Valdosta.
“Our show, titled ‘Singing & Sustenance: Cantors on the Menu,’ tells the story of a common teen who is living in a world of ‘Virtual Insanity,’” McQuade said. “Through a series of songs, we embark upon the journey of an emotionally unstable teen who is searching for ‘Sanctuary.’ With increasing emotional awareness, they realize the need to take ‘Flight’ and find ‘Better Days’ within a community of support and friendship. The end of the show celebrates the joy that comes through singing!”
As a chorus teacher, McQuade said she strives to create a classroom environment that not only focuses on musical excellence but also self-awareness.
“Our LHS choirs students are supported, encouraged, and celebrated both by their peers and their teacher,” said Misty Hughes, assistant principal of fine arts at Lowndes High.
“”Music education has proven to entertain, heal, and bring people together and our chorus program does not disappoint,” Hughes continued. As an educator, addressing the whole child is a vital part of the job and I’m proud to see (and hear) this being done well within the LHS Choirs program. I look forward to attending the debut of The Viking Cantors’ Show Choir on December 14th as they celebrate many different cultures and how we all fit into this beautiful world of ours.”
The show choir pieces truly reflect the environment of LHS Choirs, according to Tierney Walton, an LHS student.
“The Viking Cantors class has such a dedication to each other and our passion for music that it is a daily source of inspiration and joy for me,” Walton said. “While it is a show choir class, Dr. McQuade promotes an opportunity to be open and comfortable with everyone so I believe our performance surrounding emotional well-being is a testament to what the core of LHS Choirs represents.”
Emotional wellness is a core goal in the success of individuals, McQuade said.
“Social Emotional Learning (SEL) consists of 5 basic competencies: Self-Awareness, Self-Management, Social Awareness, Relationship Skills, and Responsible Decision-Making. In a world where technology (social media included) is ever-present in the lives of youth, the lines of reality are easily blurred, leaving them feeling confused, isolated, and full of self-doubt. It is our desire that we can help increase awareness of SEL and promote the emotional benefits that are associated through involvement in the fine arts.”
“Singing & Sustenance: Cantors on the Menu” is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 14, at the Lowndes High School Performing Arts Center, 1606 Norman Drive. Light appetizers will be served from 6-6:30 p.m. with the show beginning at 6:30.
The show itself is approximately 25 minutes in length. Tickets for the evening are: $12 Adults, +12 years of age (Appetizers & Show); $8 Kids (Appetizers & Show); and $5 (Show Only). All tickets are available for purchase at the door.