On June 7, Issaquah High School held its last choir concert. The concert was hosted by Evan Jenkins. His light-hearted humor and charismatic personality got the concert off to a great start, as the general atmosphere of the audience was full of excitement and anticipation. Many songs were performed, including theater music, duets, and covers.

One of the most memorable covers in this recent concert was a captivating performance by junior Braden Innes and senior Dominic Mendoza. Capturing the audience’s attention, the duo sang a musical mashup of Olivia Rodrigo’s “Vampire” and Matt Maltese’s “As the World Caves In.” In this memorable performance, their musical talents were apparent as the two managed to merge two intense songs into one seamless and emotionally charged performance. Every note was filled with emotion, and the intention portrayed could be felt throughout the audience. It was clear that Innes and Mendoza had dedicated themselves to perfecting this performance. This performance was not only emotional to hear but was also an emotional reminder of the fleeting existence of some of the students involved in the choir.

Because this is the last choir concert of the year, bittersweet emotions were felt in the audience. Many seniors are involved in our choir, and after this concert, it was many students’ chance to say goodbye to friends they had throughout their high school years. Hugs, tears, and congratulations were all around as people grabbed for seniors with watery eyes. Senior Zoe Iacomini recalls, “I was so sad to say goodbye to such good friends of mine. Choir gave me the opportunity to showcase my talents and create lifelong friendships.” This seemed to be the general consensus of the choir students, as almost all of them could be heard reminiscing about the opportunities provided to them because of choir and the friendships that were created through their involvement in the choir. Additionally, many other seniors had things to say about their chance to enter new opportunities to flaunt their artistic skills. Many choir students are involved in theater, like senior Logan Burbank. Burbank states, “I enjoyed both musical clubs I was involved in this year! My artistic and performance skills have drastically improved. I cannot wait to go to college and audition and work to be in the theater program.” Overall, the choir at Issaquah demonstrates the tight-knit community we have all grown to love and appreciate. This last choir concert of the 23-24 school year was full of beautiful work and, yet, also full of bittersweet goodbyes.