The Tempe Prep Chamber Choir’s winter concert can be viewed HERE

By Cameron Hill

Do you want to be at school at 6:30 in the morning? For most people, the answer is probably no. But for TPA’s own Chamber Choir, being at school early for rehearsals and recording sessions was no problem. The choir has worked hard despite complications caused by Covid to create a concert that will both amaze and uplift the TPA community.

This year has been an unprecedented one for the choir. Covid-19 has forced them to adapt and overcome challenges. For starters, the choir had to limit the number of its members to just 25. Additionally, for parts of the year the choir has been forced to practice online, which Junior Emma Jee described as the “hardest part of this year.” Also, even when they could practice in person, every singer had to socially distance and wear a mask. While Emma said, “It took me a while to adjust to wearing a mask while I’m singing,” Choir Director Aimee Stewart remarked that the mask wearing actually went “surprisingly well.” Despite the challenges presented by Covid, according to Emma, the choir “is always positive and ready to sing,” which is a great feat in such difficult circumstances.

Through their hard work, the choir has created a concert for all of TPA to hear. Due to the restrictions this year, the choir has produced a recorded virtual concert instead of a live show. This year, the concert has a new, exciting face. Members of the choir have created introductions for each piece that give you added insight into the performance. Additionally, the concert has a wide variety of music from different eras and composers so there is something for everyone.
The theme of the concert is very fitting for the times, as well. Mrs. Stewart described the theme of this year’s concert as “finding joy while overcoming trials.” Mrs. Stewart chose this theme to highlight a “message of optimism, perseverance and hope for better times.” Many have had a tough time this year and Mrs. Stewart hopes that the concert will be able to “lift the spirits of the entire TPA community.” Emma echoed these sentiments, stating that she hopes “even though this concert is unlike anything we’ve done before, people will still be able to listen to it and enjoy it.”

The concert, titled A Choral Greeting Card, can be viewed HERE. The choir has put in a great deal of hard work and dedication so please watch the concert to end this tough year with a bit of holiday cheer.