Last weekend, 540 students from 60 schools across the state sang in unison in one of the first in-person All-State Choir events since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Utah All-State Choir, which is made up of select high school students chosen by their teachers, performed Saturday at the Utah Music Educators Association.

“Students love coming to an event like this because of the friendships they form, and the opportunity to make music with other singers from across the state,” Nathan Egan, the All-State High School choir manager said. “They learn about choral technique, musicianship, discipline, expression and teamwork as they make excellent music together.”

Each year, a guest conductor is selected to lead the Utah All-State Choir. The students were led this year by Jonathan Talberg, a choral director from the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music at Cal State Long Beach.

The students rehearsed last Thursday and Friday, culminating in the Saturday performance at UMEA, which was held at Weber State University’s Dee Events Center.

“It was amazing to see our students come together, especially after not being able to do these kinds of events for such a long time. It gave us a moment to feel and express our gratitude for each other and music, and to sing with one purpose,” Braden Rymer, the choir director from Maple Mountain High School said in a press release. “The students not only learned from Dr. Talberg about being better singers and performers, but also about compassion, understanding, purpose, and unity.”

Joseph Peeples, an organist for the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square and the Southern Utah University Choir, also performed at the event.

“We are grateful for the support we have received and for the people who help made this event happen,” Egan said.

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