WSU, EHS choirs combine voices; prelude to multi-arts week

EPHRATA — More than 20 singers from Washington State University's Concert Choir and Chamber Singers joined four dozen EHS choir kids Thursday morning for a collaborative choral "warmup," student performances, and a combined finale of "O Fortuna."

The WSU ensembles stopped in Ephrata as part of a four-day regional tour to high schools across Washington. Other area visits included Moses Lake, Quincy and Eastmont. Both ensembles are open by audition to WSU students across majors.

WSU Director of Choral Activities Dr. Dean Luethi reached out this spring about performing locally, a visit that was welcomed by EHS choral director Tim O'Donnell.

"For us, this is a wonderful opportunity for musical inspiration and getting to hear voices in that next stage of maturity and development," O'Donnell said. "It's also cool to get to work some with their directors on some of the music we are preparing for our concert next Monday. Having input from these other professional directors is extremely valuable."

Luethi conducted Thursday morning's musical collaboration at the high school, with WSU Associate Director Dr. Matthew Myers accompanying on piano.

After the warmup, EHS students performed two pieces. Each WSU ensemble followed with two selections. The combined groups closed on "O Fortuna."

Afterward, Luethi encouraged EHS students to keep singing past graduation. Many universities run choirs open to any major, he said, and a music degree isn't required to perform in college — in fact, most touring participants were pursuing degrees outside of music. For those interested in music careers, Luethi told the students that WSU offers five music degree paths.

He also invited students to "Music Major for a Day" — WSU's free open houses held each fall and spring for prospective students at the university's Pullman campus. Attendees sit in on classes and participate in rehearsals.

O'Donnell, in turn, answered questions from WSU singers studying music education. He urged them not to overlook teaching opportunities at the strong K-12 music programs featured in eastern Washington schools. Gesturing toward his own students, O'Donnell concluded, "Make beautiful things with awesome people that you love."

The EHS choir performs again Monday night to open the school's 2026 Multi-Arts Festival, scheduled May 18-22, an always popular community event which showcases local students' considerable talents.

The choir concert starts at 7 p.m. Monday, May 18, followed by the band concert at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 19. A gallery walk with refreshments and live music runs from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, May 20. A fashion show takes the PAC stage at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 21, and the art show wraps at noon Friday, May 22.