For many sixth grade choir students in Judson Independent School District (Judson ISD), the path toward high school music programs became a little clearer—and a lot more exciting—during Beginnerfest at Veterans Memorial High School.

Held on March 6, 2026, the event brought together beginning choir students from middle schools across the district for a day of rehearsal, performances, and mentorship from high school choir members. For students just beginning their musical journey, the experience offered something many had never seen before: a glimpse of what a full high school choir program can look and sound like.

Inside the Veterans Memorial High School auditorium, the atmosphere blended nervous anticipation with excitement as students took their seats, ready to learn from guest conductor Mrs. Amy Oxley and watch varsity choirs from Veterans Memorial High School, Wagner High School, and Judson High School perform.

The workshop-style event was designed not only to introduce young singers to advanced choir performances, but also to help them envision how their own voices could grow within Judson ISD’s fine arts programs.

Connecting Middle School Singers to the Bigger Picture

Veterans Memorial High School choir director Stan Moody explained that Beginnerfest serves as an early bridge between middle school and high school choir experiences.

“This is a choir workshop event for sixth grade and new choir students in middle school,” Moody said. “They get to work with a clinician, hear our high school choirs perform, and ask the high school students questions about their experiences in choir.”

For many of the younger singers attending, it was the first time hearing older students perform at a varsity level. That exposure often sparks new motivation, Moody said.

“It’s always really fun to see young choir students open up to the possibilities that choir can offer them,” Moody said.

Events like Beginnerfest are part of a broader effort within Judson ISD’s fine arts education programs to nurture student growth early and help young performers see a long-term pathway through middle school and high school music.

Building a Districtwide Choir Community

For educators helping guide students through those early stages, Beginnerfest also reinforces the sense that choir is bigger than any one campus.

Metzger Middle School choir director Andrew Sanchez, who helped coordinate the event, said bringing students together from across the district allows them to see themselves as part of a larger musical community.

“It brings together beginning choir members from across Judson ISD,” Sanchez said. “They start to see the community that choir creates and where music can take them if they continue through high school.”

Beyond vocal training, Sanchez emphasized that choir programs often help students develop important life skills.

“Singing is something very personal,” Sanchez said. “You’re sharing a part of yourself. Through choir, students build confidence, empathy, and leadership while learning how to support one another.”

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High School Students Share Advice With Future Choir Members

One of the most meaningful parts of Beginnerfest came during the question-and-answer session, when middle school students had the chance to hear directly from high school choir members about their experiences.

For Lila Flores, a student from Metzger Middle School, hearing from older students made the challenges and rewards of choir feel more real.

“I learned that choir might be hard sometimes, but that doesn’t mean you should give up,” Flores said.

High school singers speaking to the group remembered sitting in those same auditorium seats only a few years earlier.

Veterans Memorial High School student Layla Mata, a former Kitty Hawk Middle School choir student, said choir quickly became more than just a class.

“The first thing I remember about joining choir was the people,” Mata said. “I made a lot of friends in choir, and I’m still friends with them today.”

Fellow Veterans Memorial student Ryan Alexander, also a Kitty Hawk Middle School alum, encouraged younger singers to embrace the opportunities that come with performing.

“Don’t be shy,” Alexander said. “A lot of the opportunities you get in choir require you to put yourself out there.”

A First Step Toward Future Stages

For many of the sixth grade students attending Beginnerfest, the event represented more than a workshop—it was an introduction to the confidence, friendships, and opportunities that often come with continuing music education.

Programs like those in Judson ISD’s choir and fine arts departments play a significant role in helping students discover talents they may not yet realize they have, while also building connections that carry through high school and beyond.

As students left Veterans Memorial High School at the end of the day, many carried something new with them: a clearer vision of where their voices—and their musical journeys—might lead next.

Residents and families can stay connected with Judson ISD fine arts programs, student achievements, and community events by following ongoing coverage from My Neighborhood News.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.