On February 1st, WHS show choir will host their show choir competition Competition of Excellence, or COE. This competition is a huge fundraiser for the show choir. During COE Westside show choir students can host groups and volunteer. 

Senior Jordyn Shields is a member of ATSC

“Before getting the room together I like to watch the group’s show to get a feeling of what the overall theme and vibe is,” Shields said. “We try to make it personalized to the group’s show and the people in the group…We try to decorate the room in a way that would make us feel special if someone were to do that for our group.” 

Show choir events like COE provide students with opportunities to meet peers who share their passion for performing. 

“It can be a lot of fun to host with a friend, and to meet new people from different schools,” Junior show band member Jude O’Keefe said.

Not only do these students have to be there early in the morning, but all Westside show choirs perform: some as late as midnight. The late time does not affect these performers though.

“A mix of anxiety, and excitement courses through the bodies of any peromer about to walk on stage,” O’Keefe said. “It’s a wonderful feeling. My favorite moment of any performance is hearing an electric crowd, cheering after giving everything you had”.”

COE is more than just a competition, it’s a celebration of music and hard work that make show choir a unique and unforgettable experience.