From Singing Sensations to Chamber Choir, Wesley Nichols has been singing for almost his entire life. But his nine years of dedication haven’t gone to waste. In January, Nichols became the first student from Liberty to perform in the Missouri All-State Choir.

In order to qualify for the All-State Choir, juniors and seniors who are enrolled in music programs throughout the state must first audition for the St. Louis Suburban District Honor Choir in October. There are 20 students from each part (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass) who are given the opportunity to audition for the choir. Another audition is held in November, where students are judged based on solo selection, sight-reading, and part singing. The top four singers from each part are accepted into the choir, along with two alternates.

“I was honestly surprised I got into the choir, I genuinely didn’t think it was going to happen,” Nichols said. “I was actually the runner up to the runner up, but two basses got disqualified because they were late, which brought up the runner up and me.”

In preparation for their concert at the end of the month, members had long and frequent practices, about three to four a day.

“The concert was incredible. It was definitely the biggest concert I’ve ever been in. Hundreds of people were there, including every music teacher from the state,” Nichols said.

Ms. Kennedy has been a choir teacher for many years and is excited to see how her students will continue to grow as musicians.

“I was very proud of both Wesley and Emily Gann for being named alternates to the 2020 Missouri All-State Choir. It was an honor, and an adventure, to have Liberty High School represented in this year’s ensemble,” Kennedy said. “Wesley truly has a love for music. He participates in ensembles outside of school and also takes private voice lessons. Passion is what drives a musician.”

Nichols was very grateful for the experience, as music is a field he’s very interested in.

“My favorite part about being in the All-State choir was the director,” Nichols said. “He was very emotional and got really into the pieces we were doing.”

Nichols’ story is a prime example of how practice, hard work and dedication are key in reaching the success and recognition every performer strives to earn.