There was something really special about receiving my folder. I inherited my folder from my friend in the class of 2015. She was the same voice part as me. It was a representation of the past four years of hardwork before I made it in, and the dedication to one of my favorite things about life- music.

My folder has been home to hundreds of pages, measures, and notes. Little markings that turned into what we performed. There’s a tear in the bottom left corner on the front of the folder, and eraser shaving stuck in the plastic pencil pocket. The strap on the spine always left an imprint on my hand after a performance, and sometimes I’d accidentally switch mine with someone else’s.

I’m almost done with my time in this ensemble, and I’m not quite ready to say goodbye because we still have the spring concert season. I’m not worried, though, because I know my folder will be put in talented, capable hands. Yet, I have a few words of hope and advice you will take in sincerity.

Focus, work hard, do not get wrapped up in the drama. You and your choirmates have the potential and talent to do amazing things, and I would hate to come back to your next concert and see that wasted. I have seen ensembles fall apart. Yes, people do not always get along, but that shouldn’t prevent you from doing your job, and doing it well. Put quality work first.

Respect your director. Mine is the teacher and mentor I have looked to for the past six years of my life. While they are fully committed to their job, they do their job out of love and passion. Show them the respect by having the same amount of passion and expectations for your work. They hold you at a high standard; hold yourself at a higher one.

Become better here. Not just a better vocalist, but a better person as well. Talent may get you in the door, but character will keep you in the room. You can sing all the high A’s you want, but it boils down to your attitude, your personality, and your character. Make sure those qualities are the best you can make them before even thinking about singing.

Don’t forget the memories. The bus rides, the games, the inside jokes, how you can be friends with your director sometimes, too. At the end of the day, only you and your choirmates will have the same memories. Take pictures, write down stories, and make sure you remember because someday, it will take you a few moments to remember which songs you sang and who you stood next to.

So as I pass on my folder to you, please cherish it the way I did. This experience is one of the best you will have in your life. I wish you the best of luck! Love, Maddie, folder #1.