With the school year in full swing, Olentangy music has once again echoed through the halls, and they’ve been hard at work. The band is at the start of their competition season. The show choir has practices every Monday and Thursday. The orchestra has been busy with its concert pieces, and school is less than two months in. It’s clear there is no shortage of dedication in these programs, and many students get out what they put in.
“Some students grow as leaders, some students grow as individuals, but I would say each leaves as a better version of themselves,” Timothy Smith, Olentangy Show Choir director, said.
This special experience is extra impactful for those who are members of Olentangy’s Marching Band. Because they have to travel for competition season, all members have a close bond, as they are together most Friday and Saturday nights and have practices on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
“I think the best part is all of the amazing people I’ve met. Being a part of the music programs gives you a commonality with other students that is an amazing base with which you can build lasting friendships,” Dylan Boyd, sophomore, said.
You can catch them at the halftime show this Friday, September 26, or at their competition this Saturday at Tae’s Valley.
A similar bond is evident between the members of Olentangy’s choir programs, especially their show choir. With competition season January-April, these fall months are crucial for preparation, with both Keynotes and Shenotes spending at least 4 hours a week on practice. However, this time-consuming extracurricular activity has led members to find some of their best friends.
“These programs have helped me gain so many close friends and reconnect with old ones. I would not be the person I am today if I didn’t have all the choir friends I do. There’s just something so powerful about coming together and singing as one,” Claire Langan, sophomore and Keynotes dance captain, said.
While competitions don’t start until 2026, you can see the show choir steal the stage on Jan. 16, 2025.
Not to be forgotten is Olentangy’s orchestra, which has four divisions: Prelude, Concert, Sinfonia and Chamber. Although smaller and less competition-based, the program remains formative for those who participate, and helps students grow in both musical ability and character.
“It taught me how to collaborate with other people to make a project that we were all passionate about,” Nithya Kosike, senior cellist in Sinfonia, said.
Go check out the orchestra’s concert on Oct. 1, 2025.
As is evident, Olentangy music is a valuable space for participants; it remains a stable environment in high school, which can be a rocky journey. Be sure to check out what these talented musicians can do on the concert dates listed above.
