Choir seniors reflect on their experience in the program, and say heartfelt farewells to their fellow choir members!
JuJuan Banks: This choir program holds a truly special place in my heart. Within these walls, I've found not just fellow singers, but the friends I know will be by my side for life. I am deeply grateful for each and every one of you, my inspiring classmates, who constantly motivate me and keep my spirits high. Looking ahead, to all of you who will continue this journey, please remember to stay strong, persevere through any challenges, and never give up on your passions. Embrace your unique selves, continue to grow, and always strive to become the best version of yourselves, day after day. Some of my most treasured memories will forever be etched in my mind, especially our incredible New York trip. It was an amazing experience that allowed us to truly bond as a family, and I discovered even deeper connections with some of you than I ever imagined! I also cherish all the everyday moments in our classes, filled with laughter, shared joy, and the feeling of being part of a true family. As I move forward, I plan to pursue my dreams in music education and musical theatre, and I also aspire to become a football coach! With all my love and gratitude, JuJuan
Emma Godfrey: MSJ choir has brought me an unmeasurable amount of joy throughout these four years. It has given me the opportunity to continue doing what I love while working toward my future, and for that I am so grateful. In addition, I have found a group of individuals I now consider to be like family. I will never forget the memories made as we helped each other’s dreams come true. From rocking out in the fall, spreading love and at Christmastime, to bringing life and joy to spiritual hymns, I will never forget the memories made as we helped each other’s dreams come true. I cannot forget the trip of a lifetime, experiencing the beautiful New York City with some of my best friends. If I could leave you with one piece of advice it would be to be find joy in your daily moments. Continue to work hard, find patience for your teammates, encourage each other, but take it all in (even the hard days) because it goes by way too quickly. I will forever be cheering you on, taking it in from the crowd next time. After graduation I am so excited to be working on an oncology floor as a registered nurse, and I hope to find a place to continue to foster my love for music.
Louis Tallarigo: The MSJ Choir program has been everything to me in more ways than one as I was able to rediscover my love and passion for music and performing as well as be a haven where I was able to make a group of friends that I consider a second family. From the freshman year rehearsals in the parking garage during the pandemic to where the program is now is a transition and process that I will forever be proud and blessed to say I was a part of.
To the rising seniors, I am extremely glad that I got to spend so much time with you guys over the years. Whether we were making music or adding to an increasingly long list of inside jokes, it was truly an honor to get to know every one of you. I will share some words of wisdom with you, it’s your job now. Carry the light with pride and passion and cherish every single moment. To the underclassmen, everything is still ahead for you, and I know you will make your own mark whatever that might be.
Some of my favorite memories include the process of initially forming Voices of Gold and our first trip to ICCA as well as the New York trip. As far as my future plans and goals, I will continue to pursue my dream of working in the National Football League as an equipment manager but I do not plan on leaving the stage altogether as well!
As I share the stage with you all one last time, I wish you all the best of luck in your future endeavors!
Megan McNulty: The choir program has become such an important part of my life. I have made lifelong friends and created memories I’ll never forget. I will miss singing with some of my favorite people every day. I will forever cherish all of our laughs, jokes and everything in between. When I think about what I want to say to the choir, so many emotions come up. How can I begin to say goodbye? You guys have become the best part of my day each day. Thank you for loving me and accepting me for all that I am. I love you all and hope you never lose your passion for music and choir. Make me proud! My favorite memories have to be spending time with you all in NYC and, of course, performing together. As for my plans for the future, I plan to work full-time before eventually going to grad school!
Alex Schmidt: MSJ choir will always hold a special place in my heart. It has provided me with friends that are like family, countless laughs and joys, and the opportunity to continue my schooling and carry on my love for music and its artistic expression. To my colleagues that will carry on the light in this program after me, no matter how stressful life may be never lose sight of the point of music, to bring joy and beauty to yourself, others, and the world around you. This is a space meant for you to be able to step away from the tosses and turns of life and be able to come together with others and mesh your talents together in order to make amazing art. I will always remember the countless laughs, inside jokes (yes even the Alex impressions of my voice), and all the memories this chapter of my life has held. Whether it be a normal practice in the recital hall, a crazy Christmas concert, or a walk beneath the New York City lights, this program has provided plenty to look back on and smile. Though my love for music will always be a part of me as I move on to the Cincinnati Police force, I would just like to thank each and every one of the people in this program that make it such a lovely chapter to go back and read about in my mind.
Join the seniors in their final choral concert on Thursday, April 24th in the Mater Dei Chapel at 7:00pm! Free admission, open to all!