Chansons creates an unforgettable choir packed with memories and creativity

In D041 every B block, students erupt into melodious harmonies, 38 voices fusing together in song. These voices are made up of none other than Chansons, one of East’s four curricular choirs. Led by Mrs. Heather Lockart, members of Chansons not only unite with various pieces of music but also unite with each other as a choir.

Chansons is a treble choir opposed to other choirs, meaning it primarily consists of female voices, although students do not have to identify as female to join. Students have to audition to be a part of Chansons after completing a year of Vocal Workshop, making this choir more selective than others. With all treble voices, those in Chansons join together and experience a sense of community through their similarities.

“We all have one thing in common: not necessarily the way we identify but our voices and our experiences,” said Grace Gellert (‘25), a member of Chansons.

Practicing predominantly in class, members of Chansons work on vocal exercises in addition to a variety of songs to hone in on their vocal abilities. They prepare performances throughout the year for the Fall Preview, Winter Concert, and Spring Concert. When choosing songs for these performances, members have the opportunity to collaborate on a setlist with Lockart, choosing pieces that speak to them. In May, they will also compete in a choral competition at Six Flags.

Currently, Chansons rehearse for their upcoming Spring Concert on May 18th, where they will perform “Fire,” “We Are the Voices,” and “Famine Song.” These powerful pieces carry messages of speaking out and facing injustice, which those in Chansons are excited to showcase.

“[The Spring Concert is] a cultivation of everything we’ve learned throughout the entire year. It’s gonna be so fun to see everyone display their best work,” said Gellert.

For Gellert, the community and lasting bonds formed by Chansons make this club special and memorable. Despite typically working with those in the same vocal part, Chansons provide an opportunity for sophomores, juniors, and seniors who share the same passion for singing to coalesce. Driven by their common love, individuals in Chansons work in harmony to put their best work into the choir. Chansons acts as a welcoming outlet for each unique voice to merge together into one strong sound.

“The best part of performing with Chansons is we all connect to the music together,” said Gellert. “I always looked up to the people in Chansons, and even before I joined Chansons, I saw it as this safe space.”

Chansons allows members to share their devotion to music with one another along with audiences at performances. This choir builds a sense of belonging for every individual that joins, acting as a stronghold for unity at East.