On October 11th, Southside’s 10th, 11th, and 12th graders, or Senior High, will be heading to Dover, Arkansas, to compete in All-Region auditions. The competition is fierce and difficult as it is this year’s tenth graders’ first Senior High auditions. 

     This year’s selections in music for all voice parts are “Laetatus Sum,” “Daniel, Daniel, Servant of the Lord,” and “I Am The Rose of Sharon.” The two pieces for Sopranos and Altos are “Miracles” and “Exaudi! Laudate!” while the Tenor and Bass selections are “Measure Me, Sky” and “Il Lampo.” In preparation for this weekend, students gave their thoughts.

     Ty’Laysha Bates, a sophomore who made 13th chair last year, shared her opinion.  

     “I’m not nervous, but I wouldn’t say I’m necessarily ready,” she commented. Referencing the song selections, a question was asked about how she feels about them. “ I wish our songs were like the ones from last year. These ones kinda suck,” she said with a smile.

     When questioned about whether she suspected she might make it this year, she shrugged, saying, “ I want to make it. I don’t care what place. I’ve been in choir for a long time, so making all-region is something that sticks with me the most.”

     An interview was also conducted with Asher Sims, a senior who made 10th chair last year, gave his feelings on this year’s event. 

     “ I feel like it will be much easier than the other years. The selections are much easier.” Given the high stakes, a question was asked about making it.  “ You never know for certain if you’ll make it, but I hope so. I hope to make it,” he replied.

     Emotions are high as auditions come closer, and much more work is being undertaken to help students place in a chair. As always, not every student will be placed, and there will be disappointments, yet there are some high hopes for hard-working students who may be placed.