Band and Choir Students Expand Their Skills at SEC Music Festival
February 11, 2025
CDH band and choir students had the opportunity to perform alongside top musicians from across the conference at the SEC Music Festival earlier this month. Under the direction of esteemed guest conductors, students tackled challenging repertoire, honed their skills in rehearsals, and delivered powerful final performances.
Band students performed with the SEC Honors Band and Orchestra under the direction of guest conductors Dr. John Leonard and Dr. Chung Park. Band Director Teddy Williams was proud of his students' work, saying “They spent all weekend rehearsing and working hard to put on an awesome performance.”
Bridget Bower '26, a CDH band student, commented on the festival’s intensity and musicianship. “We were given challenging music, but our expert clinicians gave us great guidance to learn and perform each piece in the short rehearsal process.” The size of the ensemble was also a striking difference for CDH students. “There were triple the number of students compared to our band at CDH,” Bower said. “We had a much more full and loud sound.”
For the CDH choir students, the experience was just as rewarding. They joined the SEC All-Conference Honor Choir, working under Dr. Brandon Dean from Gustavus Adolphus College. “They presented a stunning performance showcasing the musical finesse they worked so hard to attain in such a short time,” said CDH Choir Director Delilah Schuster.
Sky McLeod '25, a CDH choir participant, described the energy of the event. “To be a part of a large chorus filled with so many talented singers was unreal. The environment was very accepting and kind - I felt very welcome among everyone in the choir.” The festival also provided opportunities for students to connect with peers from other schools. “At CDH, not as many people are passionate about music as I am, so I felt so blessed to share music with others who are just as excited to sing.”
Lucy Keating '26, another choir participant, talked about the connections she made at the festival. “The first day was kind of a whirlwind with not much chance to get to know each other. But on the second day, we really started to connect. It was super cool to see the differences in music programs at other schools.”
Despite only two days of rehearsals, the final performance left a lasting impression. “Everyone was super excited to perform, and after spending time together, we felt a lot more comfortable,” Keating added. “It was just a fun time.”
The festival also provided valuable lessons in musicianship and performance. McLeod, who has participated in the SEC Honors Choir for three years, mentioned its impact on her growth. “Each year has allowed me to grow and thrive more and more. The exposure to larger choirs is so rewarding, and I’ve learned so many techniques from the clinicians.”
Mark Loeffler '25, a band participant, shared similar sentiments, noting how the performance felt different from other concerts. “In my opinion, there was a lot less pressure at this event.” His favorite piece, Elements Movement One, stood out for its energy and the fun of performing it.
For students considering joining in the future, Keating had some advice: “Calm down and enjoy the experience. It can be overwhelming, but in the end, you get to make amazing music.”