For many students, choir is just another elective. For senior Mackenzie Lee, it has been a huge part of her high school experience. After spending two years singing at Saville Middle School, Lee has devoted all four years of high school to the Shadow Ridge choir program.
“I have always loved singing,” Lee said. “So I wanted to take a class where I could better myself and get to sing with others.”
That decision to take choir five years ago has changed her life. Through long rehearsals and countless performances, Lee said she has seen the rewards of her dedication and commitment.
Behind much of the choir’s success is director Mr. Halvorson, who Lee describes as both supportive and disciplined. She said he knows exactly when to be playful with students and when to push them to meet their potential.
Lee stated, “Whether it be him making a fool of himself to relate to us, or when he goes into dad mode and drops the hammer on us, he is always there for us whenever we need and is super understanding of our struggles, so that he can help us in the best way possible”
That balance is especially important when it comes to preparing for concerts. According to Lee, Mr.Halvorson takes care to focus not just on the musical details but also on the mindset and mental health of his students.
“He tries to calm down our nervous jitters by giving us pep talks and giving us tips on how to not be so nervous,” she said. “As far as singing-wise, he goes over small details that we had forgotten about in the months of preparation, the day before or the day of the concert, so it is fresh in our brains.”
For Lee, though, the most meaningful part of choir is the people she sings alongside. In Chamber Choir and Advanced Choir, she’s been surrounded by classmates who are just as passionate as she is.
“My favorite part of being in choir is knowing that the classes I’m in have other students who are there to make amazing music and are willing to give their all and work as hard as they need to,” Lee said.
Choir at Shadow Ridge is more than just singing the right notes. It’s a space where students learn to grow in ways they don’t always expect. They practice handling nerves before stepping on stage, and they discover how much effort it really takes to create something meaningful. Even on the toughest days, the persistence pays off, and the confidence students walk away with goes far beyond the classroom.
