Lia Dimapasok

As Madrigal Feaste quickly approaches, Ayala Choir is practicing vigorously to create a memorable night for those in attendance. Seen in the picture, choir member Brooklyn Arteaga (10) flaunts her finished choir song checklist.

As the Ayala Choir prepares for the upcoming Madrigal Feaste, the pressure is on for each member to complete their extensive song checklist. The checklist serves as a crucial evaluation tool for the students, ensuring that they meet the high standards set by the choir program.

At the helm of this musical journey is Mr. Robert Davis, the choir director, who explains the purpose of the checklist. 

“Our students are responsible for performing a lot of music for the Madrigal Feaste,” Davis said. “The checklist is an opportunity for them to show mastery for each song they’ll perform. It’s a way to gauge their progress against our high standards.”

This checklist isn’t a simple formality; it serves as a checkpoint for each student, ensuring they meet the set expectations for the songs they are tasked with mastering. As the deadline looms, the pressure is on to complete the checklist.

However, the challenges of this checklist extend beyond musical intricacies. Mr. Davis sheds light on the logistical hurdles, comparing the preparation to “putting on a wedding every day.” The checklist is just one facet of the broader preparation that includes constructing a medieval castle within the multipurpose room (MPR) and serving a three-course meal. Despite these challenges, the music continues to progress splendidly, promising an exceptional performance.

Choir member Chloe Utterback (9) provides her own view from the student perspective. 

Utterback acknowledges the checklist’s role in fostering unity, stating, “It helps us communicate, get to know each other, and create a better bond overall.”

Fellow choir member Brooklyn Arteaga (10) echoes this sentiment, also acknowledging the dedication required to master each song. 

“The stress that accumulates from having to get all those songs checked off plays into your actual performance. It makes you a little nervous and messes up with your mind,” Arteaga said.  

The stress can make performers nervous during the actual show. Despite this, the collaborative spirit cultivated through the checklist aids in creating a supportive environment. Both Arteaga and Utterback find solace in the multiple individuals available to assist with the checklist, contributing to a sense of teamwork.

As the Friday deadline approaches, the Ayala Choir is in full swing, balancing the demands of the song checklist, logistical preparations, and the quest for unity. The upcoming performance promises not just a feast for the ears, but a celebration of the collective effort that goes into creating musical brilliance. Be sure to attend the Madrigal Feaste yourself and watch Ayala Choir in full action!