Samohi Choir Concert: Samohi Serenade
There is something profoundly special about gathering in a crowded auditorium, waiting for the lights to dim, and feeling the shared anticipation of a live musical performance. This past weekend, I attended the Samohi Serenade: the Santa Monica High School Choir program’s featured concert. It was an amazing 2 hours of performance, leaving the audience inspired, moved and deeply appreciative of the young musical talent in our community.
From the moment the students took the stage, the sheer enthusiasm and polished vocal technique were undeniable. Every ensemble brought incredible energy and heart to their repertoire, filling the venue with rich harmonies and striking dynamic range.
The highlight of the evening for me was a captivating performance by the Samohi Valkyries, who delivered an unforgettable rendition of Taylor Swift’s “You Belong With Me.” Blending joyous energy with crisp choral arrangements, the ensemble transformed the pop classic into an engaging, multi-layered highlight.
Beyond the exceptional music, the evening offered a poignant moment of reflection when Jeffe Huls, Director of the Samohi Choir Program, stepped up to address the audience. His remarks resonated deeply across the hall.
Huls shared a story about recently watching a video depicting an automated future: a world where machines and algorithms performed countless tasks, yet human presence was completely absent. He used that vision to offer a powerful reminder: music, singing, and artistic expression are fundamentally what make us human. In an era increasingly dominated by technology and automation, the act of gathering in a room to experience live human voice is a crucial anchor for community and connection.
His inspiring message was met with enthusiastic applause from an audience clearly moved by the reflection. While technology and automation have no doubt benefitted our lives, their is a deep sense of uncertainty of the future in many. During these times, being able to share art as humans is so important.
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As the final notes of the Samohi Serenade faded, the audience was left with more than just great melodies. They left with a renewed appreciation for live art, community spirit, and the unmistakable warmth of human voice. Bravo to Jeffe Huls, the Samohi Choir, and every single student and volunteer who made the weekend’s concert such a resounding success!
