By Tyanna Xavier – Social Media Editor

Jonathan Law’s choir has seen many dramatic changes in 2020, but they have tackled all of these challenges head on. Advocate Social Media Editor Tyanna Xavier interviewed Choir Director Ms. Jones about how the choir is adjusting to performing during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Tyanna Xavier: What has been different when it comes to teaching choir this year? 

Ms. Jones: The fact that we don’t have those bonding opportunities that we normally would have. At this point, we already would have had a summer party, been at the Oyster Festival, performed at a Pep Rally and football game, been getting ready for performance for the 8th grade open house, and had an ice cream social. It’s difficult to feel disconnected in that way but it is still incredible how we are still making connections in any way we possibly can.

TX: What has been the biggest challenge teaching the choir students this year? 

MJ: It is very challenging, as with so many things these days, to perform with masks. The obvious difficulty is being able to breathe properly for vocal production and make sure we do not over project and harm our voices. So, this year we are being very mindful of vocal health and being thankful for what we do have. And, that is the amazing opportunity to still make music together.

TX: Do you think this will strengthen the students into better performers? 

MJ: The most difficult part is being so far apart. Twelve feet is quite the distance and a lot of times it makes us feel as if we are singing in isolation and that is not what the Law choir is about. Luckily, the students are getting used to this “new normal” and the music they are creating is still impressive and on some levels, even more, impressive due to the obstacles! That is what makes them so amazing.

TX: Will there be any concerts for the choir? If so how will the choir perform? 

MJ: As of right now, there will be no winter concert this year. We still plan and hope to perform in some format but it will not be with an audience and will most likely be small groups that will be possibly pre-recorded. Very strange to imagine this is how it is this year, but if anyone can persevere and overcome it is our amazing Law choir family.

TX: How are the students handling choir despite all these changes? 

MJ: It has been remarkable to watch the students adapt and overcome during this process. We perform outside whenever the weather permits, we must sing 12 feet apart and with masks on for a total of 30 minutes. This is so different from how we typically perform but the students continue to amaze me and make miracles happen together.