On Thursday, March 30, the UMEI Christian High School Vocal Choir participated in MusicFest Windsor at The Capitol Theatre.

MusicFest Windsor is a nonprofit music festival that promotes and celebrates creativity through artistic expression, community engagement, and musical leadership. It is an opportunity for students and educators across southwestern Ontario to share their musical achievements through a performance venue.

“This was a great opportunity for our students to perform on a professional stage,” said Music Director Erin Armstrong. “These young people showed dedication and perseverance as they prepared for the competition.”

The UMEI Vocal Choir consists of 20 students from Grade 9 to Grade 12, some of whom entered high school with no prior vocal experience. “Mrs. Armstrong creates an environment where everyone wants to do their best,” said Grade 10 student Peter Martens.

The choir performed three pieces that were then adjudicated. They were celebrated specifically for their confidence, stage presence and projection. “It was great to hear that the judges were impressed by the sound our small choir can make!” said Grade 9 student Delaney Dault. “It was a really rewarding experience.”

UMEI was awarded Silver Plus, with an official invitation to perform at the 51st Annual MusicFest Canada Finals in Niagara Falls. Grade 12 student Maddie Enns was awarded the Outstanding Musician Award.

“We are so proud of our students for their hard work, which led to confidence and beautiful four-part harmony on the stage,” said Principal Sonya Bedal. “It’s safe to say that, after a short break during the pandemic, music is back in full swing at UMEI!”