Disney and decisions: Stepping stones in Samo music
Hope Wang/ The Samohi
Leah Boumell, SCVA nominee.
Hope Wang/ The Samohi
Celine Hutchinson, SCVA nominee.
Hope Wang/ The Samohi
Adam Silverman, SCVA nominee.
Southern California Vocal Association (SCVA) is an exclusive choir event held at the University of Redlands that brings together some of the most talented young singers. After the selective audition process, performances were held Nov. 7-9. This event offers incredible experiences to perform alongside students from all over Southern California. This year, eight Samo students auditioned and got accepted to participate in this selective competition. Students who perform well during regionals have the opportunity to move on to the next level: a state competition. This is a great opportunity for students to showcase their vocal skills and experience performing with a talented group of peers. For these students, SCVA is not just about the competition, but a chance to pursue singing outside the classroom and push themselves as musicians.
Hope Wang/ The Samohi
Charles Blanchard, SCVA nominee.
Nine Samo students performed in SCVA, Adam Silverman (’25), Leah Boumel (’25), Celine Hutchinson (’25), Charles Blanchard (’25) and Harper McCallum (’26) whom are all apart of madrigal ensemble, the highest choir level at Samo. Additionally, Ansel Brodkin (’27), Emily Whaley (’25) and Zoey Jaffa (’27) who are in Chorale choir, and Karin Cervantes (’26) in Chamber.
For Silverman SCVA is a chance to prove his individual growth as a singer. Silverman was a part of the SATB choir. Silverman reflected on the experience and discussed how the choir has been an important part of his life, starting in fourth grade. Silverman's motivation stems from the joy of performance and personal growth.
“It means that I proved to myself that I can do this. This is my third time doing SCVA, and each time it's a step into a more advanced choir. It's about taking that next step and getting better…there have been times where I thought about stopping, but being on stage and the connection I have with my director, that's what keeps me going,” said Silverman.
Charles Blanchard (’25) is another student participating in SCVA. Blanchard was a part of TTBB choir, and was qualified for All-State but did not choose to follow through. Blanchard expressed how SCVA has deepened his respect for the musical process. His commitment to choir is rooted in his love for music and the power it holds.
“I’ve learned to respect where people are in their musical development and to meet them where they are… it’s about helping people grow and being patient with each other, music is something that connects people in a way that words can't,” said Blanchard.
Celine Hutchinson was in SSAA choir, and did not sign up to be considered for All-State. Hutchinson shared how participating in SCVA is an opportunity to grow both musically and personally. Hutchinson has been singing since third grade and believes SCVS is an especially powerful experience.
“Being in choir means being vulnerable, being able to open up during rehearsals, and working closely with people. It's not just about the music, it's about how you connect with the group. SCVA was one of the largest choirs I've ever been in, and the music was new, and the directors were different. It's inspiring to be around people who are so passionate about choir,” said Hutchinson.
Leah Boumel is a second-year participant in SCVA who was a part of SSAA, emphasizing the importance of community and connection in choir. Boumels motivation to continue in choir is tied to her relationships built with others.
“The most important thing I’ve learned is working together as a team, and being a leader without being overbearing, it's about lifting each other up. I've grown to love choir more because of the community, you become so close with the people you sing with,” said Boumel.
While most students have chosen not to continue further with the event, some, such as McCallum and Cervantes have advanced to All-States to continue their SCVA journey.