First District Choir Festival

In the words of Dr. Bradley Almquist, "Masked singing is better than silence." Students from CCHS and surrounding areas could not agree more.

On September 28, 2021, some members of the Calloway County High School choir attended the KMEA First District Choir Festival at Paducah Tilghman High School (PTHS). 

These outstanding students participated in the event: seniors Nina Natividad, Chloe Hutson, and Valus Jackson; juniors Olivia Lane and Lily Waynick; sophomores Samantha Mackly and Eli Williams.  

Although this festival is an annual event, things looked a little different this year. Some years have showcased more than two hundred and fifty voices coming together for this event; however, the number saw a decrease with just over a hundred voices on the stage of the PTHS auditorium. Additionally, social distancing in the auditorium made for a major change with upwards of one hundred fifty people socially distanced. 

The students in attendance were led by the director of choral activities at Murray State University, Dr. Bradley Almquist. Furthermore, all students were required to wear masks during all rehearsals and performances. 

CCHS Choir director Mr. Dycus said, “The masks blurred the diction and vocal tone a bit,” but in the words of Dr. Bradley Almquist, “Masked singing is better than silence.” Against all uncertainties and obstacles, students at the KMEA First District Choir Festival put on an outstanding performance that evening.