Girls State Choir develops close relationships, acts as family away from home

By Anna Eggers

Girls State delegates involved in choir this year have found family even though they’re away from home.

Choir director Ethel Cooper is known as “Grandma Cooper” to those she’s working with this week.

Under Cooper’s direction, Girls State Choir will perform in Aalfs Auditorium tonight in front of the rest of the delegates and American Legion Auxiliary members.

Cooper has taught kindergarten through eighth grade instrumental and vocal classes throughout her entire life.

She also teaches piano lessons, plays the organ, directs choir in church and is the director of River City “Sweet Adeline” choir in Yankton.

Although she retired from teaching in 2001, she decided to go back this past year when Bon Homme School District was in need of a band director.

Cooper has directed Girls State Choir for 10 years.

Cooper said her favorite part about directing the choir is having all the voices come together in the end, making a beautiful sound.

She also enjoys the “amount of diversity” she is able to hear while directing.

Even though the choir “has to really hustle” with only three practices to prepare for its performance, Cooper said the festive, patriotic songs and different ranges of voices are what make her come back to direct the Girls State Choir.

Sydney Powers, Seattle, is a member of the senior honor choir at her school and she thought participating in the Girls State Choir would be a great experience for her.

Kami Corneman, St. Paul, decided to join choir this coming school year at her school. Corneman said she thought trying Girls State Choir would be a great place for her to get into the vibe of singing.

Kristen Werpy, St. Paul, said she has most enjoyed vibrant, patriotic songs.

Corneman and Powers both agreed one of the best aspects about Girls State Choir is the opportunity to meet new delegates who are not in their cities.