SVSU show choir group Encore performed their spring show last weekend, saying goodbye to long-time leader and communication senior Cara Deschermeier.
The group began in the fall of 2010, and Deschermeier has been with the group since then.
“I was an incoming freshman and this group showed up and asked me to join,” Deschermeier said of how she got involved.
Vanguard photo | Logan Mooney
Encore members Chris Sabal and Mitch Sansiribhan perform at the organization’s Spring Spectacular last Saturday evening in the Malcolm Field Theatre for Performing Arts. The 30+ member organization performed two final shows to close out the winter semester, sponsored by RSOs Program Board and Valley Nights.
“I really don’t know where I’d be without Encore. It defines me as a Cardinal.”
The group puts on a show every fall and winter semester, typically right around the time of finals week.
“It’s a great break from studying and lets students take a little portion out of their night to refresh and unwind,” Deschermeier said. “We really don’t have anything else like this on campus.”
The group is unique in that the performers basically do a little of everything, including a cappella, song and dance with instruments, and the full-show choir numbers.
According to Deschermeier, Encore also incorporates a variety of genres in their performances.
“We want to pull current and throwback songs so all generations can enjoy our show,” she said.
In addition to the audience enjoyment, Encore also provides an escape from the grueling routine of homework for its students.
For chemistry junior and third-year vocal coach Katarina Keel, this is the case.
She finds the group a way to break up the intensity of her studies.
“Being in chemistry, my academics are extremely hard,” Keel said. “Without this as a different activity, I wouldn’t have as much fun. It’s a great way to express my artistic ability.”
Encore also gives members a social group of support and friendship.
According to criminal justice sophomore Aly Thatcher, the relationships she’s developed has been her favorite part of her Encore experience.
Thatcher is a dance instructor for Encore and has been involved for three semesters.
“A lot of my best experiences have been from here,” Thatcher said. “It’s also helped with my leadership and teamwork. It’s really neat to see how far we’ve all come.”
Deschermeier sees that friendship opportunity as especially key for incoming freshman.
“We’re always here to help and have fun,” she said. “It’s a chance to us to show what we love and we’re here for the students and the community.”
For interested students, they can contact Encore at svsu.encore@gmail.com.
The group has auditions at the beginning of each fall and winter semester a few weeks after students have returned from break.
“The auditions might sound intimidating, but they are totally worth it,” Thatcher stressed. “It’s a great place to have lots of fun.”
