By Evelyn Rossi – Staff Reporter

Senior Lexi Velez has been a member of Choir for all four years of her high school career and has been on the Choir Board as manager for three of those years. Staff Reporter Evelyn Rossi interviewed the Senior Manager about the Choir. 

Evelyn Rossi: What do you think makes a great Choir member besides singing ability?

Lexi Velez: I think what makes a great Choir member is the ability to help others and to be a leader, without being asked. It’s also the ability to take criticism and how you view that to improve your performance and tasks.

ER: What are the biggest challenges of managing Choir?

LV: I would say the hardest thing about managing Choir is being on top of everything, so when someone has a question, I already have the answer, and so I’m two steps ahead. I am the first person most kids go to before asking Ms. Jones a question or when they need advice. Also, when you’re the manager, Jones has that trust for me to act and make decisions without being told. 

ER: How do you help students feel confident during performances?

LV: I always support them on any decisions they make that make THEM comfortable. I also try to be supportive by saying things like “don’t worry, you got this” or “whatever happens, happens; don’t beat yourself up over it.” By saying reassuring comments and compliments, I see how the students look relaxed and confident. 

ER: What has been your favorite Choir performance or memory so far?

LV: My favorite Choir memory or performance is the times I’ve made it to All-State, and I was able to perform for a whole bunch of directors, families, and students from the state with other students I’ve become close with. Then my favorite memory is sleeping over at the Hartford Convention Center for States with my friends. 

ER: What advice would you give to new students thinking about joining Choir? 

LV: An advice I would give a student joining is, don’t be afraid of trying something new. And to never be embarrassed for being yourself because no matter what happens, you’ll always have a home in Jonathan Law Choir.