Madison Reporter

The Velma Hamilton Middle School 8th Grade Choir performed at the Wisconsin State Capitol Rotunda on March 13. This event was part of the Wisconsin Music Educators Association's Capitol Concerts series, celebrating National Music in Our Schools Month. The choir, directed by vocal teacher Margaret Jenks, was the only middle school ensemble from the state invited to perform.

The choir consists of 115 students who presented a program titled “Call to Action.” This title was chosen by the students after studying the "hero’s journey" in literature and its parallels with musical structure. The performance included a diverse selection of pieces designed to challenge and inspire young musicians.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our students,” said Jenks. “Performing in such a historic space is not only thrilling, but a powerful reminder of the role music plays in bringing people together.”

Legislators and senators representing Hamilton students attended the performance, along with family members and Capitol staff.

“The selection of Hamilton’s choir is a testament to the strength of music education in our district,” said Dan Davidson, MMSD's director of fine arts. “These students are dedicated and passionate, and those attributes were on full display for all who were fortunate enough to be in attendance to enjoy.”