By Alex Jeon
After last year's All-State experience in the Men's choir, my expectations for this year's All-State Mixed Choir were very high. It might sound cheesy, but being in the Men's choir made me feel like part of a brotherhood. We all understood each other, we all loved singing, and we all made amazing memories in just a week.
I'm not sure why, but I was a bit apprehensive about being a part of Mixed Choir, almost as if I wouldn't enjoy it purely because my former experience overshadowed it. And to be honest, the first day of All-State this year didn't give me the same feeling of excitement and happiness. I don't think driving four hours to camp and being told by Dr. Holmes, the choir director, that he was disappointed with our preparation gave me a fair impression of All-State.
However, it was great to see the returning members of All-State again, and I probably met more people on the first day this year than I did the whole week last year. Also, it seemed that the Mixed Choir took Dr. Holmes's comment in the best way possible because the next day, we were all rewarded with Dr. Holmes's approval of our efforts. So although it had a rough start, All-State started to give me that nostalgic feeling of being part of a pack/brotherhood again.
As the week went on, I met so many people who had the same interests as me and not once did I feel like I had to fit into a group. Everyone was so welcoming and easy to talk to. A few of the best memories were playing ultimate frisbee pretty much anytime there was free time, talking with friends over meals, and singing with the best high school singers in Minnesota.
The week went by so fast and by the time the final concert rolled around, I felt the same empty feeling of having to say goodbye to people I became so close to. (It's okay though, we have a Facebook page and we see each other in February! All hope is not lost.)
I know a simple thank you is not enough for what they've given me but from the bottom of my heart I want to thank God, Mr. Albaugh, Ms. Sandham, Mrs.Toso, and MMEA for giving me the opportunity to sing at All-State this year and I wish future Rosemount singers and All-Staters the best of luck in vocal music. THANK YOU!