Unique Musical Opportunities
By Dr. David Stephenson and Heather Wilcox
When you think of high school choirs, certain images come to mind: students standing in rows on risers, formal attire, a piano accompaniment, and a conductor providing support and direction. Though these groups still exist (and thrive!), at Lexington and River Bluff High Schools, local students enjoy musical alternatives that may not look or sound like a “typical” school choir.
Lexington High School’s “The Lexingtones” and “The Golden Girls” are pop a cappella choirs reminiscent of celebrated groups like Pentatonix. Choreography and a vocal percussionist—without instruments or a conductor—are hallmarks of this singing style. Dr. David Stephenson, in his
ninth year at Lexington High School, directs these groups with students serving as choreographers.
Chappell Lackore, a student member of The Lexingtones, shares her observations about this choral program: “Music brings students from different schools together, because music is a universal language. The lyrics connect to so many people, and people can relate to one another through a song.”
“Being a part of this group has been such an amazing learning experience in how I sing and listen to music,” adds Kendall Steele of The Golden Girls. “Singing with many different voice parts makes you focus on your part underneath the weight of everybody’s voice. It has made me appreciate the
complexities of music and all of the layering that goes into it.”
“Working on pop techniques is different, due to the lack of instrumental music, and more complicated rhymes/harmonies due to the differing flow of pop/jazz music,” continues Jenna Howell of the same group. “The coordination takes serious work and helps us grow closer through grooving and choreo.”
At River Bluff High School, the group “Southern Charm” flips the popular music choir coin to reveal another side. This ensemble specializes in vocal jazz—with titles that extend from the golden age of radio to today’s popular tunes. Its members perform complex jazz harmonies, improvised scat solos,
and barbershop tags. Choral director Heather Wilcox works alongside choreographer Katie Hilliger Page to create themed programs for community holiday appearances and a standalone spring show, making Southern Charm the public face of the school’s choral program.
“Traditional choir focuses more towards classical music, technique, and blend amongst the ensemble,” explains Olivia Eidenbrook, a singer in Southern Charm. “Vocal jazz and pop allows for more individual expression by veering away from strict standards.”
Lucas Allocco, also of Southern Charm, fondly recalls his participation in the dance-partnering activity dubbed “We’re Not Really Strangers,” which encourages choir members to become better acquainted. “It makes our group really close and makes learning music, dancing, and performances more
meaningful and impactful,” he says.
“Representing our school on stage is an honor because it highlights all the hard work, hours of practice, and dedication our program puts in,” concludes Kaleigh Connor, also of Southern Charm. “It gives us a chance to show people outside our area the incredible talent and positive spirit our community
has to offer.”
