Class Review: Vocal Ensemble

Here at Moeller, we have a wide variety of electives to take. Ranging from languages such as German and French, and technology classes that help you work with computers, Moeller truly has it all. One hidden gem within these classes is the Vocal Ensemble, run by our very own Jim Balbach. Moeller’s Vocal Ensemble is the “cream of the crop” of choir classes, and only excepts juniors and seniors. The average class size ranges from 18-25 members, and this year takes place during B1.  

The key difference between the average Moeller chorus class and the Vocal Ensemble is the course load. The songs Vocal Ensemble sings are typically harder, and they normally learn a higher quantity of them as well. Additionally, they perform outside of the Winter/Spring concert. 

Some of the Vocal Ensemble’s performances outside of the Winter/Spring concert this year include singing Christmas carols at Gate Of Heaven Cemetery as well as singing at St. Vincent’s mass. In years past, the Vocal Ensemble has sang the national anthem at a Red’s game, performed at the opening day of Moeller’s new baseball field, and even sang at Mr. Kuhlman’s wedding! 

-Moeller Vocal Ensemble singing at the opening of Kremchek Stadium, picture from https://www.cincinnati.com/picture-gallery/sports/high-school/2022/03/30/ohio-high-school-baseball-photos-moellers-kremchek-stadium/7211341001/

This year, Moeller’s Vocal Ensemble is split into four different subgroups, each with a different job. The members with the highest vocal range are placed in the “Tenor 1” section, the members with the lowest voice are placed in the “Bass” section, and members who are in between land in the “Baritone” and “Tenor 2” sections respectively. Tenor 2’s are in the mid-high range for their voices. and baritones are in the mid-low range for their voices. Each group works together to balance each other out and create a beautiful and unique sound that can only be achieved through a choir. 

In conclusion, although it may be a more difficult course, the challenging yet rewarding nature of Vocal Ensemble as a whole makes it a class that is not only worthwhile, but enjoyable as well.