Unfortunately, underneath the excitement and performances there are tasks that must be completed to make the magic happen. It turns out making beautiful music requires more than natural talent; it requires funding. With the budget cuts this year, students must work harder than ever to raise money for the program.
Although making music is the main goal, choir class inspires its students in other ways. It is a haven for musical gurus, driven students, or kids just looking to make new friends.
“The music department has always had financial issues, which means that we’re already pretty adept to having to deal with a lack of funds,” Markley said.
Students are more aware this year of the financial situation than in past years. Two weeks ago the choir program began its annual cookie dough fund raiser. According to choir director Hilary Morton, money from the fund raiser is used for folders, sight singing books, pencils, paper for programs, uniforms, hiring an orchestra and purchasing music.
“It’s really hard because there are so many people in choir,” junior Natalie Edmondson said. “Whenever I ask someone they have already bought from someone else.”
Choir is a commitment, and causes enough stress without the added job of selling cookie dough to keep the program thriving. However, with the lack of funds it is a necessary labor. Usually, the amount of money the district allots for music purchases is gone by December.
“This year the amount was cut in half, and the money was gone before the students ever returned,” Morton said.
Even though selling cookie dough is a chore, keeping the program alive makes the effort worthwhile. For a few people, selling cookie dough has become a life lesson that accompanies the singing aspect of the class.
“[Choir] has kept me close to a lot of good friends,” Markley said. “It has made me a better musician and, in some ways, a better person.”
Sometimes, money for funding comes from a completely different angle.
“Many students’ parents donate to our program each year, which is fantastic,” Morton said.
For junior Will Libeer, the class is just as much about building character as it is about music.
“It has given me confidence and pushed my boundaries because singing in front of the choir is one of the most nerve-wracking things ever,” Libeer said.
The choir program introduces students to new ways of thinking and learning, and is often used as a place to escape for a little while. Although selling cookie dough is tiresome, no one involved with the program would like to imagine losing it.
“Free State choir is an opportunity to make beautiful, beautiful music,” Markley said. “You walk into rehearsal to make something beautiful, and at the end of rehearsal, you’ve done it.”
