The Kokomo High School Vocal Jazz Choir is one of only 8 State finalists, who will be performing at the Indiana State Music Association’s State Finals this Friday (March 18) at Franklin Central High School. KHS Choir Director Cherresa Lawson is elated for this special group of young ladies.
“This group made history by being the first Kokomo High School ensemble to qualify for the Vocal Jazz State Finals,” Mrs. Lawson explained. “They are such a joy, as well as being one of the most talented groups I have ever had the privilege to work with. In one word – multifaceted … each individual has different vocal styles, abilities, and personalities; in addition to the drive to achieve artistic greatness. Put all this talent in a pot, let it simmer, and the finished product is a truly unique and amazing sound!”
The 7-member KHS group consists of alto 1: Amarian Corbin (12th-grade), soprano 2: Kiara Koon (11th-grade) alto 1: Abagail Kuntzman (11th-grade), alto 2: De’Andra McClung (10th-grade), soprano 2: Noelle Duncan (9th-grade), soprano 1: Aramaea Fivecoate (9th-grade), and soprano 1: Nora Marden (9th-grade).
And as Mrs. Lawson noted earlier, this group is multi-talented, which forced Mrs. Lawson to add two choir students temporarily to the group for the District Vocal Jazz Qualifying Event. Two members of the Vocal Jazz Choir also are members of the KHS Dance Team, which was competing in the National Dance competition at Disney World in Florida at the same time as the District event. Mrs. Lawson extended a special request to Rilyn Wonnell (12th-grade) and Morgan McCloud (11th-grade), who sing in other KHS choir ensembles.
“I asked Morgan and Rilyn if they would be willing to learn the music and fill in for the dance team members for the District competition,” Mrs. Lawson explained. “Both young ladies said yes, and worked very hard to learn this extremely difficult music in less than 3 weeks. I cannot express my gratitude to Rilyn and Morgan for their selflessness in helping make this group’s bid for State a reality! Actually, all the ladies stepped up and gave a wonderful performance that propelled them to the 2022 Vocal Jazz State Finals! And I am confident that these young ladies will make Kokomo High School proud this Friday at State.”