By Georgie Bridger
Class of 2012
The Upper Campus chorus at Ojai Valley School took its show on the road this week, with singers and musicians performing for their counterparts at the Lower Campus.

For the third year in a row, the group recreated its fall concert for a rapt audience at the Greenberg Activities Center.

Twenty-five singers and musicians showcased their skills with a range of solos, medleys and instrumental performances.

The 20-minute show consisted of a haunting spiritual, a classic American folk song and a toe-tapping Motown medley featuring such classics as “You keep Me Hangin’ On,” “Stop! In The Name Of Love,” and “Respect.”

Viewers cheered and applauded wildly, with many in the audience breaking into spontaneous dance and joining in with numerous songs.
 
The chorus has traditionally staged numerous concerts for key events such as Parent Weekend and graduation.

But Upper Campus choir director Lisa Boyd said she is always looking for opportunities to present choral performances to a wider audience, and the Lower School provides the perfect chance to do that.

In addition, Mrs. Boyd said the performance provides the opportunity to expose Lower Campus students to the music program at Upper, with the hope of encouraging them to participate in the chorus in future years.

“I was looking for an opportunity for the chorus to perform and wanting to show the Lower Campus the talent that we have at Upper,” Mrs. Boyd said. “I’m so proud to show them off.”

The Lower school faculty was extremely pleased to see the returning students, praising them for their excellent maturity and melodic voices.

After the performance, Lower School music teacher Lisa Gordon exchanged hugs with a number of students who had sung for her, and who now sing at the Upper Campus.

“It was fantastic, awesome,” she said of the performance. “It’s why we teach, for moments like this.”

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