Brandon School District – Of more than 300 middle school choir students who auditioned for the state honors choir, two Brandon Middle School singers found their way to center stage.
On Jan. 24, Krista Bertolone and Tiffany Angell will join more than 120 eighth grade vocalists from across the state, to perform for a full house at the University of Michigan Hill Auditorium.
“I’m excited I’ve accomplished something I’ve worked on, “ said Angell when asked what it means to be able blend her voice with 125 of the most vocally talented soprano-alto students in the state.
The accomplishment for the two youngsters is the result of many hours devoted to finding and developing a musical niche for a clear performance.
“It’s a huge achievement,” said Dr. Deborah Wolfe-Sebetic, musical director of the Brandon School district.
“They both have a lot of talent, but, making it (to state honors choir level), this takes a lot of motivation and dedication of time.”
“They have to commit time from themselves and their families.”
Sebetic explained that talent alone didn’t send Bertolone and Angell to the auditorium stage, but the ability to pass both local and regional auditions in Monroe and Mt. Pleasant.
During the final audition process choir hopefuls then perform a capella (a solo without musical accompaniment) in front of a final state judging panel.
“It was nerveracking trying out in front of the judges,” said Bertolone “It takes a lot of practice but I wanted to do this because my family told me I was a good singer and I like doing it.”
Both scored high throughout the process and landed a seat on the 125 member soprano-alto state choir group.
“I do this because it’s my dream to be able to sing and make something of it,”Angell said, feeling fortunate to have the opportunity to work toward her musical goal.
“It makes me think I’m fortunate to do this even though some of my other partners did’nt get to make it.”
Once accepted to the choir the singers will travel to Midland, Saline, Holland, and Ann Arbor for lengthy practices.
“Both girls have a beautiful tone to their voice,” said Sebetic “And I have no doubt they will do well into high school.”
Other Brandon Middle School choir students who dedicated time to audition for the honors choir were David Huckabone, Jessica Hartman, Jireh DeJose, and Amy Spradlin.