Battle Ground Public Schools

PHS Choirs to perform at the ‘Home for the Holidays’ virtual variety show

The Prairie High School choirs are teaming up with singers from across the Portland metro region and beyond to show that the fun and joy of the holiday sing-along are still alive. The “Home for the Holidays” performance is a virtual variety show that will be broadcast at local nursing homes in an effort to reach vulnerable populations that have been increasingly isolated during the pandemic.

On Thursday, Dec. 3, the music begins at 5:15 p.m. with live jazz piano played by Paul Nelsen, and choir performances beginning at 7 p.m. Attendance is open to all and free of charge, though donations are gratefully accepted.

The combined choir classes at PHS will join the choirs from Pacific University, Portland Community College Rock Creek and the Multnomah Athletic Club Balladeers for a collaborative online performance of holiday favorites including, “Deck the Halls,” “Home for the Holidays,” “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” “Jingle Bells,” “Silent Night,” “White Christmas,” the Mexican traditional song “La Mujer que Yo Amo,” selections from the Jewish tradition, and much more.

“We all need something to lift our spirits and turn our hearts outward—a chance to remember what it feels like to create together, even if it is a little different right now,” said Douglas Orofino, PHS’ choir director. “My hope is that this performance brings light, joy, music and hope to you and yours this holiday season.”

“I think it’s a wonderful opportunity for students and directors to work together during these challenging times to build community and use our music to reach out and make a connection
in the world for those of us who are the most isolated,” said Scott Tuomi, Director of Choirs for Pacific University.

“Distance learning for choir is particularly difficult because the community and family-like bonds that we normally would have are all online now,” said Max Martin, a junior choir member at Prairie High School. “Learning the music in a virtual setting takes plenty of hard work and perseverance, and I couldn’t be prouder of the choir community.”

“I am encouraged by how much this project has lifted my spirits and the spirits of my fellow musicians,” Orofino said. “So far, every person that has worked on it with us has expressed how much joy and motivation it has brought to an otherwise very difficult school year.”

For more information about the show, please refer to the event flyer, visit the PCC website, or contact Samuel Barbara at Samuel.barbara@pcc.edu or Scott Tuomi at tuomis1@pacificu.edu.