Mount Michael has always been known for its academics and its athletics, but something that does not have as much notoriety has been the Mount Michael Choir. Last year the Mount Michael Choir only consisted of seniors, but this year it has been more diverse with a collection of freshman, sophomores, juniors, and seniors led by music teacher Ms. Emily Nolan. Nolan joined The Mount Michael faculty in 2022, and she takes pride in her choir. Mount Michael Choir has experienced much change as the students have graduated.

Nolan only started teaching choir when she came to The Mount, but she has loved every second of her teaching. However, it comes with challenges. Nolan explained, “Every year the ensemble changes so we need to make sure we are comfortable singing together.” Every year the choir needs to retune their sound and stay comfortable together.

In her class they practice working on that ensemble. Her class usually starts with solfege which is Do Re Mi etc. Nolan said, “Singing is like a muscle, so it is important to be constantly working and strengthening that muscle.” When asked what her class’ favorite song Nolan replied “One Tin Soldier” by Dennis Lambert and Brian Potter. Nolan said, “They really enjoy singing this because it’s fun and easy like a campfire song.”

As the year progresses Nolan wants to challenge her choir with more difficult and challenging songs that include union and harmony, but for right now as her choir is still very new they are still working on basic songs as they continue to develop as the year progresses.

On September 30, the Mount Michael choir took their first expedition to UNK to collaborate with other schools in a choir festival. Nolan said “My kids worked hard and sang all day to compete well. I am proud of all who sang.”