The High Plains Honor Choir was held at Chadron State College on February 3, 2026. This was a chance for high school students to sing with college-level singers and learn from experienced directors. Being chosen for the Honor Choir was a big deal because it showed how much work and practice a student had put in. This year, two Banner County students were selected to perform with the ensemble. They had to audition by singing part of a song chosen by the college and send in a recording. After the auditions, Shawnie M and Abigayle J were chosen to perform at the concert.
Once they arrived at Chadron, the real work started. They spent a day and a half in rehearsals learning all the notes, rhythms, and how to blend their voices with the High Plains Honor Choir singers. The directors would stop to make adjustments and make sure everyone stayed on beat. Even though the schedule was tough, it was also a chance to meet students from different schools who love singing just as much as Shawnie and Abby.
The High Plains Honor Choir sang four gospel-style hymns, which require more than singing the right notes. Gospel music is about feeling the energy, and the students worked hard to make each song sound uplifting. Shawnie and Abby had to pay attention to everyone around them so their voices fit in perfectly with the rest of the choir. The rehearsals were long. They were also full of laughs, encouragement, and excitement as the concert came together. According to Shawnie Mason, “We practiced like crazy, but seeing the music come together made it worth it.”
By the time the concert happened, the Honor Choir sounded confident and ready. Family, directors, and community members came to hear the performance. You could really tell how hard everyone had worked. Being part of the Honor Choir was not about singing. It was about learning, making friends, and being proud of your school. Shawnie and Abby came home not only as better singers but also more confident musicians who had been part of an amazing Honor Choir experience.
—By Leeigh McGowan