By Annie Goodykoontz

The Tempe Prep Chamber Choir had an entertaining recital on Jan. 14. But it was not just a chance to perform, or to hear great singing. It also served another purpose.

“The chamber recital is a super great opportunity to prepare for the regionals auditions,” says Clara Moffitt, a junior.

That’s not all. Another of the benefits of the recital is the feedback from the audience, which also helps the singers prepare. “The recital is put on like a master class,” Clara says, “which means that after we perform, the audience will make comments on our performance, telling us things we did well and what we could improve.”

Another benefit of this recital is that there is a mock sight-singing portion—singers look at music for the first time and sing it—which further prepares them for the regionals audition, which was held Jan. 25.

There’s more.

“Additionally, you get to learn from the other singers!” Clara says.

This year Tempe Prep’s participation was greater than ever before. “I’m so excited that there are so many people auditioning for regionals!” Clara said. “In the past it’s only been a few people, but in the last couple of years it has really grown.”

Everyone has been working super hard in the chamber choir for this audition, and the hard work has paid off.

“Regionals is as challenging as it is stressful,” Clara said, “and I’m so excited for all the people who are trying out for maybe the first time as it is so fun and also an excellent opportunity to grow.”

The students who made it into the All-Regional Choir are Eric Johnson, first chair bass, Clara Moffitt, second chair soprano, Lizzie Turley, eight chair soprano, and Kylie Klassen, fourteenth chair alto.