As a relief from taking notes and studying in classes, many students participate in performing arts classes during school.

Unlike concert choir, ensemble choir requires an audition in order to join. Shane Darakjian, ’09, ensemble tenor, is currently in his ninth year of choir.

?My favorite part about singing in choir is being able to express myself through music,? Darakjian said. ?A lot of people aren’t like that, so it sets me apart from others.?

Along with ensemble choir, Darakjian also plays the bass in worship band during chapel. Choir and worship band director, Aaron Bryan, describes Darakjian as a dedicated leader.

?Shane is willing to work on anything I give him,? Bryan said. ?He is one of the first to help in any way he can.?

After singing in choir since fourth grade and ensemble for four years, Darakjian received a scholarship from
Fresno Pacific University and will continue to participate in choir at the collegiate level.

“Singing has always been a passion of mine,” Darakjian said. “I’ve always enjoyed music, so it’s of way of participating. I don’t know if I will continue to sing formally after college though.”

The ensemble, concert, and junior high choir performed at the Christmas concert on Dec. 15. When ensemble choir sang ?Hope for Resolution,? the choir surrounded the audience, creating an effect that set the piece apart from the rest of the program.

?My favorite song we sang at the concert was ‘Hope for Resolution,'” Darakjian said. ?I like how the meaning for the song is freedom.?

Darakjian believes that some of his most memorable moments occured during his involvement in a choir performance. He still recalls a trip to Colorado his freshman year as a favorite experience.

?We [the choir] won highest honors while we were there,? Darakjian said. ?But it was just fun being able to see all the different places we went to on our vacation.?

For more information on choir, e-mail Bryan.