As the EPGHS Show Choir moves further into its season, the team continues to grow more competitive, motivated, and driven to succeed. With competitions nearly every weekend and practices filling their weekdays, the group maintains a demanding schedule from early January through early April. So far, they have traveled to Tomah, Sauk Prairie, and Bettendorf, with upcoming stops in Manteno, John Hersey, and Wheaton Warrenville South.
The season kicked off in Tomah, Wisconsin, where the team delivered an impressive start. After performing in prelims and earning high scores, they advanced to finals. By the end of the day, EPGHS Show Choir secured second place, an outstanding achievement for their first competition of the season. Tomah proved to be just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting and successful year.
Beyond the trophies and titles, EPGHS Show Choir has built something even more meaningful: a strong, close-knit community that feels like family. Students work together toward a shared goal, dedicating countless hours to perfecting their performance while creating a positive and supportive environment.
A major part of that community comes from director John Shaffer, who has been involved with the program for 23 years. “It’s 21 years that I have been in charge of the program and 2 years that I worked with the group through student teaching and clinicals until the position opened up for me to take over,” stated Mr. Shaffer. His leadership has helped shape the program into what it is today. This year marks the 50th overall year of show choir for El Paso/EPG High School. The program plans to mark the occasion with a special performance in April at the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts featuring the current group.
Staying motivated throughout a long and competitive season can be challenging, but the team’s leaders continue to inspire those around them. Jack Gramm, a senior and dance captain, shared what drives him. “Looking at my past self and seeing how much I’ve improved and how I could keep improving, not just as a singer and a dancer but as a better person, has inspired me and motivated me.”
Grace Van Scyoc, a junior and fellow dance captain, emphasized the importance of teamwork. “What inspires me is the people in both Hi-Fidelity and Modulations. I know that if I continue to work hard, then hopefully everyone will match my energy and we can become greater as a group.” Their words reflect a key truth about show choir: success is never the result of one person’s effort, but of an entire team working together.
With only half the season complete, EPGHS Show Choir still has many incredible experiences ahead. As they continue to push themselves and grow stronger with each performance, their focus remains clear. Mr. Shaffer shared his goals for the group, “My goal this year is to keep working hard until the final curtain. Ultimately, I want to see students all be proud of the product that they can put together and be the best version of themselves while doing it.”
No matter what the final results may be, one thing is certain: the EPGHS Show Choir is determined to give every performance their all and finish the season on top of the world.
