Somewhere among the cold winter months, are days where the cold can actually become enjoyable. The sudden delight in the weather is not due to an increase in temperature, but rather choosing to see an opportunity instead of an obstacle. The Walton-Verona Choir did just that on January 16th. Inviting guests in from the wintry wilderness recently overcoming surrounding areas, the Cincinnati Art Museum had a special presentation for everyone inside. Upon hurrying into the lobby of the museum, visitors would become immediately immersed in art, but not just any art. They would experience the art of voices.
At the end of the Great Hall, stood the Walton-Verona Choir warmly serenading passer-byes with harmonious tunes. Many guests could barely get by the choir without stopping for a few songs out of pure admiration. Even those in the upper levels lent an ear over the banister, simultaneously reminiscing. The beauty in the choir’s concert was most recognizably its ability to draw people in. There were mothers sitting with their children, older couples close to one another, and the occasional tour guide slowing his pace just to listen in on a few more notes. The songs from the choir seemed to hush the building too. Squabbling between siblings, distressed voices, and complaining tones stopped for a while as the students tried heartily to perform well. They performed well as Mrs. Core-Stine directed her students’ talents splendidly.
After such a joyful concert, the students celebrated by admiring the surrounding art within the museum. While walking around, conversation began about why students chose to be a part of the choir. Emma Wolfe explained her reasoning saying, “I love being in a group of people who collaborate and create a beautiful piece of art.” Emma has been in choir since middle school and said she wanted to, “hone in on her vocal abilities.” Olivia Hedges has also been in choir since middle school, but attributed her initial joining to obligation as her mom was the choir teacher at the time. Emery Hedges and Izzy Sturgeon, on the other hand, have been in the choir since elementary school. Izzy described her motive: “I really love spreading joy with music.” Each of the students, as seen in the responses of just a few of the choir members, brought a genuinely delightful presence to the stage. To further their celebration, the choir and their delight were taken to the ice rink.
Despite the cold, the singers skated decently while only walking away with a few falls. Although they may have gone home with sore feet from skating, the people they sang to walked away with a harmonious
memory they could pull out of their pocket on any rainy day.
