On Wednesday, May 20, the State High Choir performed in the PAC during the Pops Concert directed by Erik Clayton. The choir performed eight songs throughout the show, including “Here Comes the Sun,” “Unwritten,” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.”
The Spring Pops concert is unique in that it celebrates seniors and others who have influenced the program throughout the year. The director of the concert, Erik Clayton, finds it very important to lighten the load for the singers during testing season at State High.
The concert featured a slideshow highlighting seniors and recognizing the choir officers. Clayton feels that it meshes celebration and performance well.
“It’s kind of like an end-of-the-year banquet meets a concert,” Clayton said.
The senior class was performing their final concert at State High and donned shirts of the college they will be attending. Clayton said he was proud of how far the senior class had grown over their time at State High.
“This was a really great senior class that…just stepped up so much, and we’re really a close-knit group, and they really helped the whole department achieve a ton,” Clayton said about the success the seniors had.
One song the choir performed was “Hooked on a Feeling.” This song included a solo performance from sophomore Jacob Heller.
“Honestly, I was nervous going into it. But once I was up there, it’s really just embodying the character of the song.” Heller said.
“Hooked on a Feeling” was one of several pop songs performed at this concert, which was meant to be a relaxed celebration of the choir’s year.
One senior who was celebrated during the concert was Ellie Shepski, who has been in choir since fourth grade and will attend Penn State next year.
“It’s just been a really great experience. Getting to improve, making music, and having that kind of community.” Shepski said about her time in the choir at State High.
After these seniors graduate, a new group of underclassmen will have to step up to leadership roles.
“I think this next senior class will have the opportunity to step up and make some opportunities,” Clayton said.
The songs included throwbacks and current hits, such as “Unwritten.” One song performed was “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” which included dancing and singing.
“I think for this particular performance, ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,’” Clayton said about his favorite song that was performed.
Clayton is very appreciated by his students in the choir program, and Heller specifically stated his appreciation.
“He’s one of the best directors in the school. He really cares about the students,” Heller said.
The Spring Pops concert successfully wrapped up the choir year and the seniors’ careers in a fun and lighthearted way.
