Carlmont Choirs encourages creativity and belonging by creating a safe place for all students.
“Creativity comes down to giving kids a space where they can feel vulnerable because I think it’s tough to be creative if you don’t feel like you can be vulnerable,” said Genevieve Tep, the Carlmont choir teacher.
Senior Grace Kara, one of the co-presidents of Carlmont Choirs, participates in the group and shared that the choir room provides a safe refuge for students.
“All of the kids in each choir are so different, and people connect over extracurriculars,” Kara said. “As they get closer to other people, they feel more comfortable expressing themselves. It’s just a place where students can be themselves.”
Tep observed how the choir community creates a supportive environment that allows students to express themselves openly and authentically.
“I usually find out from a kid’s parents that they’re timid, and I’m confused because they’re not in here,” Tep said.
Additionally, members of the choirs have noticed a sense of familiarity and camaraderie in the group, allowing students from different backgrounds to interact.
Kara has experienced this, noting that she gained valuable insights from working with a diverse group of individuals.
“I joined choir sophomore year. It showed me something different from other communities,” Kara said. “I’ve met many people, and it’s a huge community and family.”
Additionally, this sense of belonging allowed students to share their creativity.
Freshman James Charriere has seen this creativity in the upcoming “Cabaret Show,” which allows students to showcase their individuality through song.
“Many people have been able to do the cabaret show auditions and choose any song,” Charriere said. “So people have been able to sing anything they want, allowing students to express themselves.”
