Nicole Ankersen’s says her philosophy has always been that ‘you sing because you want to, not because you have to.?
Needless to say, Ankersen has known she’s wanted to sing for a long time.
A freshman at Lake Orion High School, Ankersen has the opportunity of a lifetime: A chance to sing with an honors choir in France and Germany.
She was one of 78 singers chosen from over 4,000 campers at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp last summer.
To get into the Blue Lake International choir, Ankersen went through a tedious interview and audition process.
The choir is made up of selected students from across the Midwest. They go on a three-week tour in June.
Ankersen, who also sings with the intro choir and state honors choir at LOHS, said she enjoys singing a variety of different music.
‘I like pretty much everything,? she said, noting that foreign language pieces are among her favorites.
Last summer’s trip to Blue Lake was the second for Ankersen, who also has interests in writing and martial arts.
She also works at the child care center at the Great Lakes Athletic Club, and does some babysitting too.
Ankersen needs to raise $4,200 for the trip, which will certainly be an unforgettable one.
‘It will be a great experience,? she said.
‘We’ll be staying with host families, so we’ll get some of the cultural experience as well.?
In addition, the Blue Lake choir will get an opportunity to sing with some European choirs.
The Blue Lake International choir is made up of boys and girls ages 13-18. Ankersen sings second soprano.
For more information about her trip, or to help with the fundraising efforts, contact Nicole Ankersen or her parents at 693-0822.