March is a monumental month for the Kentwood Choir, exemplifying the spirit of OneKSD—students, staff, and community united in shared purpose and excellence. On March 24, twenty-three talented choir members will join Northeastern University choral students to perform Vivaldi’s Gloria at the iconic Carnegie Hall in New York City. This prestigious invitation highlights the choir’s dedication, skill, and artistry, as they were selected based on their outstanding audition tape and stellar reputation. The Kentwood Choir will be the only high school ensemble performing at the event, making this an incredible honor and a reflection of the district’s commitment to nurturing student talent and creativity.
In preparation for their Carnegie Hall performance, the choir recently performed Gloria with the Kentwood chamber orchestra during their mid-winter concert at the Kentwood Performing Arts Center. “I was excited for our chamber orchestra to collaborate with our choir students and do this baroque classical piece together,” said Choral Director Daisy Li-Emans, who has led the Kentwood Choir for the past 18 years.
OneClass: Growing Through Music
Daisy fosters a collaborative and inclusive environment where students with a shared passion for music come together, creating a diverse and harmonious ensemble. “I invite students to join the choir if they have a passion and interest in singing. I often say we are diverse in talent but united in voices,” she shared. Under her direction, students are encouraged to grow musically and personally, gaining access to additional opportunities such as jazz choir or The Lilacs, a soprano and alto ensemble that competes regionally.
Through their musical journey, students develop valuable skills that extend beyond the stage. Studying music takes a lot of patience, teamwork, dedication, respect, and grace,” Daisy said. She champions the philosophy of “practice over perfection,” reminding her students that being a performer is about progress, not flawlessness. “Being a performer means you show what your progress is, even if it’s not necessarily perfect yet,” she explained.
OneCommunity: Support Through Shared Experiences
The choir’s success is made possible through the support of the entire Kentwood community. The choir booster club fundraises throughout the year, ensuring students have access to transformative experiences like their Carnegie Hall trip. This shared investment from families, staff, and the broader community highlights the power of unity in fostering student success.
OneKSD: Empowering Voices Through Art
The Kentwood Choir’s journey to Carnegie Hall is a testament to the OneKSD spirit, where students, staff, and families unite in support of student achievement. Their music transcends the stage—it fosters connection, creativity, and shared pride. As they take the Carnegie Hall stage, they will not only showcase their musical talent but also carry the collective heart and spirit of the Kent School District with them.
Congratulations to the Kentwood Choir and Choral Director Daisy Li-Emans on this remarkable accomplishment—their dedication and artistry inspire us all!