Perfect Pitch: O'Dea Choir at Benaroya Hall

by Henry Rivera

The O’Dea choir is more than just a class. For many students, it is a place to grow as musicians, make friends, and represent O'Dea. From early morning rehearsals to performing at Benaroya Hall, choir members put in a lot of effort to make each performance very good.

James Vaccari, a junior, says his favorite part of choir is simple: “Since I was young, I have always loved to sing.” He first joined because his friends were in it, and that is still part of why he stays. Performing at Benaroya Hall stands out to him each year. “You sing in front of at least 600 people, and all eyes are on you,” he says. Even though it is hard work, he adds that “it’s also really fun.” Students from 11 different schools spend hours rehearsing together and building friendships along the way. Each year, a new guest conductor leads the combined choir, which gives the group a new experience every time.

Senior Josiah says choir is about teamwork and responsibility. “Choir isn’t just about singing your own part,” he explains. “It requires constant listening, precision, and responsibility to the ensemble.” He has performed at Benaroya Hall three times and says it is a meaningful experience. “Standing on that stage as a high school musician is both humbling and deeply meaningful,” he says. Months of preparation go into the concert, including long rehearsals and a full day at the hall before the performance. Josiah thinks that “shared effort” is what makes the festival special. “Together, we create something far bigger than ourselves,” he said.

Junior Jacob, co-president of the O’Dea Performing Arts Department alongside Josiah Scanlan ’26, values the small but dedicated group. “I love the tightknit group and how hard working we are,” he says. Performing at Benaroya Hall was a proud moment for him. “Standing on that stage… made the moment incredibly meaningful,” he explains. As a leader, Jacob hopes to grow the choir and bring in more members. “Having many voices amplifies our way of spreading the joy of making music together,” he says.

The O’Dea choir is built on hard work, teamwork, and pride. Whether singing in early morning rehearsals or performing on a big stage, these students show what can happen when people work together toward one goal.