More Than Just Singing in a Circle: Inside THS Vocal Ensemble

By: Sophia Karron

If you have attended a Tower Hill assembly, open house, or convocation, you have probably seen a group of students stand in a triangle or semi-circle and suddenly burst into song. That group is, in fact, the Tower Hill Vocal Ensemble, and there is actually much more to what we do than what meets the eye…or ear.

The Vocal Ensemble is a small, audition-based group of talented singers who perform a wide range of music from classical pieces to contemporary pop arrangements. Because it is a selective group, each member is responsible for holding their own part confidently–sometimes even when a piece divides into ten or more harmonies. We perform at school events to build community, celebrate school spirit, and share the hard work we have put into our music. 

I have been a part of Vocal Ensemble since my sophomore year, and it has been one of the most rewarding experiences. Each year brings a new blend of voices and personalities as seniors graduate and new members join, which keeps things fresh and challenging. We are a close-knit group, and this helps us achieve the blend and unity that make our sound so special. 

One of my favorite traditions is performing at Senior Baccalaureate and Graduation. We always sing “The Road Home”, a beautiful piece that captures the bittersweet feeling of saying goodbye. Every year, without fail, there are tears from singers and listeners. It is such a significant, special moment!

During a typical class, which meets every other day in the ten-day cycle, we start with vocal warmups before rehearsing our current repertoire. Right now, we are working on the song “Moon River”, a classic that challenges our blend and tone. With our growing group, we have even outgrown our usual piano circle. Vocal Ensemble also mixes voice parts while singing side by side, allowing us to explore how the overall group sounds when standing next to different people, each with their own unique voice.

Looking ahead, the most exciting news is our upcoming 2026 trip to London. Vocal Ensemble was selected on a national level to perform with the world-renowned a cappella group VOCES8. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for us to sing! We will attend a West End Workshop and even see a West End show (the London equivalent of Broadway). Personally, this is what I am most excited for. 

For me, Vocal Ensemble is more than just a class; it is a space to release stress while doing what I enjoy with my friends. Whether we are performing in front of the whole school or singing in the stairwell, Vocal Ensemble continues to be one of the most meaningful parts of my Tower Hill experience.