News Summary
The Greater New Orleans High School Choral Collective, formed by 125 talented singers from 12 schools, is set to perform alongside Ledisi at Super Bowl LIX. This milestone opportunity was organized by choir director Jessica Harvey and reflects the students’ hard work and determination. They will sing ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing,’ paying tribute to their cultural history and showcasing their talent on a global stage. The performance also commemorates the hymn’s 125th anniversary, making it a memorable occasion for the choir and the community.
New Orleans High School Choir Set for Super Bowl LIX Performance with Ledisi
New Orleans is buzzing with excitement as a local high school choir prepares for an unforgettable moment at Super Bowl LIX. Imagine being just a few weeks away from sweeping the stage alongside the sensational Grammy Award-winning artist, Ledisi! This thrilling opportunity came to life when Jessica Harvey, the dedicated choir and vocal music instructor at KIPP New Orleans High Schools, received a very special call from a Super Bowl official in early January. The official invited her choir to showcase their talent at this colossal event, and Harvey wasted no time in getting to work.
Building a Choir of 125 Voices
With the call to perform at such a prestigious event, Harvey was asked to assemble a choir consisting of 125 talented singers, leading to the formation of the amazing Greater New Orleans High School Choral Collective. This inspiring group includes students from 12 different schools, joining forces to create a powerful musical experience. These young performers will grace the Super Bowl stage, singing the moving anthem “Lift Every Voice and Sing”, alongside New Orleans native Ledisi, creating a beautiful backdrop for a historic moment.
A Celebratory Hymn with Deep Roots
“Lift Every Voice and Sing” holds significant meaning for the choir members, as it reflects their backgrounds and ancestry. This hymn, often recognized as The Black National Anthem, was penned by the talented James Weldon Johnson, with music composed by John Rosamond Johnson. As the choir prepares to perform, the members are filled with pride, knowing they will be part of a moment that celebrates history, culture, and music.
Dreams Come True
Budding artist Wesley Whitsett, a senior at McDonogh 35, shared his heartfelt gratitude for this remarkable opportunity. He has always dreamed of stepping onto the Super Bowl stage, and now that dream is blossoming right before his eyes. Similarly, Damyri Bickham, a standout performer from John F. Kennedy High School, believes their presentation will resonate with the community, motivating others to chase their dreams. These enthusiastic students embody the dedication and passion that makes New Orleans proud.
Hard Work and Dedication
Jessica Harvey couldn’t be more proud of her students. She expressed how this moment truly illustrates that the sky is the limit and anything is possible with hard work and determination. To prepare for this monumental event, rehearsals have been nothing short of intense. Harvey insisted on a professional appearance during practice, allowing only blue or black jeans without rips or holes and tennis shoes. Even during harsh weather conditions, including snow, students stayed committed and rehearsed over Zoom to enhance their musical skills.
High Hopes for the Super Bowl Stage
For those participating, the anticipation is palpable. Each choir member had to sign a non-disclosure agreement, keeping their performance a closely guarded secret until the big day. This rigorous dedication has molded them into a disciplined and talented collective, bringing high expectations for their international debut performance.
Seeing the Stars Align
As they gear up for the main event, Ledisi is set to wear a stunning billowing white dress while being flanked by the 125-student choir in vibrant yellow robes. This performance not only marks the celebration of Super Bowl LIX but also commemorates the 125th anniversary of the beautiful anthem, leaving an indelible mark on this special occasion.
A Musical Extravaganza
This year’s Super Bowl, to be hosted at the famed Caesars Superdome, features an electrifying matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles. To add to this celebratory atmosphere, well-known artists like Jon Batiste, Trombone Shorty, and Lauren Daigle will also make appearances in the pregame festivities, creating a whirlwind of music and joy to keep fans entertained.
As the countdown to Super Bowl LIX continues, all eyes are on these talented young performers from New Orleans, ready to captivate audiences worldwide with their voices and dreams, showing that magic truly happens when community, talent, and opportunity come together!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Fox 8 Live: New Orleans School Choirs to Perform on Super Bowl Sunday
- Google Search: Super Bowl LIX
- Essence: What to Expect from Super Bowl’s Soulful Celebration
- Wikipedia: Lift Every Voice and Sing
- Variety: Ledisi to Perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing” at Super Bowl
- Google News: Ledisi Super Bowl performance
