Voice of an Angel
Everyone at Ralston Valley knows there’s a music program. It’s safe to bet they also know at least one choir
is a part of that program. Chances are you know someone in a choir conducted by the talented Jeff Talley.
Most can identify what Shades of Blue is; few can tell
of the recently added Sapphires; and fewer still have
any clue what Heaven Sent happens to be. Even mentioning the name tends to raise eyebrows from both
students and staff.
For those who are unsure (which seems to be most everyone)
Heaven Sent is an auditioned, student-lead, women’s choir. A
small group of dedicated upperclasswomen who ditch their
director and put to miraculous use their own talents built up
over years of singing. As Junior Amanda Firebaugh confidently
states “We can sing.”
Their abilities are a truth undeniable to those with an ear for
music; or anyone who had the pleasure to attend their first concert where the sweet and sassy group performed “Zero to Hero”
from Disney’s Hercules. Tough as nails and cute as buttons,
the group took the stage with character immediately, calling
upon the power of the muses to belt out a tune that forced a part
of you to want to jam out with the girls. A dozen strong, each
lady’s skill was highlighted in inspirational solos. (Followed
shortly by their more potent brother choir Manley Scent, whose
small but worthy crew is due just as much praise.)
But their abilities are far from without effort. Not established
as a class, Mr. Talley’s limited intervention comes before the
group’s first rehearsal, to form the selective choir and sparingly to assist when needed. “He’s there to help if we ask for
it, but it’s on us” Soprano Senior Amy Dollar reports about the
rehearsal process. Laying the work on their shoulders. Thus
allowing them the freedom and responsibility to choose their
own concert songs. “I enjoy being able to spice up the variety,”
Senior Isabelle Alvarado comments on process, “We all come
together to pick the music”. Getting 12 girls to all agree on
single piece to perform is nothing short of another miracle.
Accompanying music selection come the actual rehearsal. Putting in hours of free time during ICE periods to bond and sing,
the choir displays their collective love for music. Abbie Speed,
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