On Nov. 16, Pajaro Valley Unified School District communities came joyfully together as Aptos High School’s Performing Arts Center was filled with the sound of young voices as more than 100 elementary, middle, and high school vocal students came together for a spectacular Choir Festival—the first of its kind in recent memory.
The event showcased the incredible talent and dedication of students from across the local community, highlighting the importance of music education and the power of collaboration.
The festival brought together singers from schools in the Aptos area, including Aptos High, local middle schools, and several elementary schools.
The day-long event featured group rehearsals, vocal workshops and special guest performances by Cabrillo Youth Chorus, and culminated in a vibrant afternoon concert under the direction of the guest instructor, Cheryl Anderson, director of choral activities at Cabrillo College.
The performance wowed parents, teachers, and supporters of the arts.
“This Choir Festival was about building community, celebrating these students’ hard work, and showing them what’s possible through choir, especially when they start young,” said Jessalynn Levine, Choir Director at Aptos Junior High and Aptos High School.
The festival featured a diverse choral repertoire, ranging from classical to contemporary, and allowed students to perform as part of larger ensembles and in smaller group settings. Students worked under the guidance of expert vocal teachers and experienced choir directors, gaining invaluable performance experience while building confidence and a sense of accomplishment.
Renee Roberts, music teacher at Mar Vista Elementary, was instrumental in conceptualizing and organizing the event.
“This festival is about more than just singing; it’s about creating a community of young musicians who inspire and support each other,” she said. “The excitement and enthusiasm from the students were palpable, and it was heartwarming to see them connect through their shared love of music.”
Aptos High’s Performing Arts Center served as a perfect venue for the event, providing a state-of-the-art environment where students could perform in front of an enthusiastic audience. Parents, family members, and school staff filled the auditorium to cheer on the performers and celebrate the students’ achievements.
“Moments like these reinforce the importance of the arts in education,” said Corey Tamblyn, a parent of a participating choir student. “The arts foster character development and self-expression in ways that other subjects cannot. They help our children build confidence, teamwork, and empathy—essential skills for their future.”
The event was made possible by the collaboration of local schools, music educators, and community supporters who are dedicated to enriching the lives of students through music.
Organizers expressed their hope that the Choir Festival will continue to grow in the coming years, providing even more opportunities for young vocalists from additional PVUSD schools to connect, learn, and perform.
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For more info about future events, contact Stephanie Monroe, VAPA/GATE Coordinator at [email protected]