Mira Costa choir performs at Carnegie Hall

By Ava Klein
News Editor

Mira Costa choir members performed at New York City’s Carnegie Hall, where they were recognized as the “Featured Choir” on the weekend of March 3-4.

This was the first time that Mira Costa’s choir has performed at the historic music hall. According to choir members, performing at Carnegie was life-changing.

“Singing at Carnegie was definitely one of the most incredible experiences of my life, and I will truly never forget it,” junior Rachel Azafrani said.

Costa choir participants of all levels were invited to Carnegie. Over one hundred choralists participated in the Carnegie concert. According to choir members, the experience of being in New York, was a memorable one.

“I had a really great time,” junior Molly Curtis said. “ Being in New York with some of my best friends and performing with kids from all over the country was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

Choir performed many songs including “Machet die Tore weit,” “O vos omnes,” “Richte mich Gott” and “March of the Toreadors from Carmen.” According to choir director Michael Hayden, the performance was a success.

“They were brilliant, poised and professional,” Hayden said. “I am more than proud; I am absolutely elated. They were nothing short of amazing.”

Carnegie Hall is one of the most recognized music halls in the nation, and Costa choir performers felt honored to be involved in such a prestigious event.

“The opportunity to perform in such a respected hall as Carnegie was a once-in-a-life time experience,” junior Matt Phillips said. “I am sure that I, along with everyone else who attended, will never forget this performance or this experience.”

Parents of choir students and Costa faculty members, including Principal Ben Dale and Manhattan Beach Unified School District Superintendent Dr. Michael Matthews, chaperoned choir’s trip.

“They [choir members] were awesome,” Dale said. “I fought back the tears as they sang, savored every moment and did not want it all to end.”

Costa choir members practiced every day in preparation for their performance at Carnegie Hall.

“Every day in the classroom our choirs strive for choral excellence,” Hayden said. “We all share this daily dedication to being the best choirs we can possibly be.”