By Nancy Azzam

The Granada Hills Charter (GHC) G-Notes show choir group took home second place in their division at Hart Encore on March 7. 

Headed by choir teacher Dr. Desiree Balfour, the group has been working to perfect their performance since their boot camp in late July and early August. They spent the weeks leading up to the competition at Hart High School refining and perfecting their eight total pieces. They not only focused on the technical details of their singing and the choreography that accompanies it, but also focused on storytelling and the emotional connection that the group wanted to evoke from their audience. 

The group shows their dedication in intense rehearsals their period two choir class as well as an additional two hours of practice after school on Tuesdays.

As the competition grew nearer, extra rehearsals were held in order to clean up harmonies, synchronise choreography, and nail their transitions. 

“This experience was a testament to the students’ hard work, dedication, and passion,” Dr. Balfour said. “Coming in second place in such a competitive field was a huge achievement, but even more important was the growth and bond that the students developed throughout the process.” 

The show itself explored the theme of finding true success through connection rather than through fame or money. 

Their setlist included “Could’ve Been Me” which was a high–energy opener where a smooth-talking producer eliminates performers during an audition scene. This was then followed by “Empire State of Mind” which highlighted the allure of fame and fortune through an invitation to New York City. The next song in the list was “Producer Man” introducing the conflict and tension which complemented “Would I Lie to You?” well, as it explores doubt and temptation. The group truly hit their theme with “Already Gone,” displaying the emotional fallout of a relationship. The final songs in the set list brought back hope and lifted the audience up with songs like “Such Great Heights” and “Price Tag,” which show the realization of what really matters. The show’s finale included “This is Me” which is an extremely powerful song, showcasing the importance of embracing authenticity and connection.

The G Notes’ strong and technical production scored them not only second place overall but also two awards for standout performances. 

Senior Melia Moss received the Best Soloist award for the entire division through her heartfelt performance that really connected with the audience, especially through her performance during “Already Gone.”

Senior Milena Chragian who played the smooth-talking producer and was also honored with Best Performer for her skillful work throughout the entirety of the competition as she dazzled the audience. Chraigian has been on choir for four years and is also the show choir representative.

“It truly felt so incredible to win second place and it’s such a rewarding feeling you only get to experience when you join the choir,” Chragian said. “Winning Best Performer after four years of dedication to the choir department is such an indescribable feeling of accomplishment, especially when you’re surrounded by the people you love. When my name was called on stage to receive my medal, I was not only celebrated by my friends and family, but other incredibly talented individuals you get to meet at show choir competitions. Being backstage with my choir family and doing our G-Notes chant before going on stage is a memory I will cherish forever, thanks to our phenomenal choir director, Dr. Balfour.”

The crowd was able to provide an incredible energy for the students to feed off on. The group received fantastic feedback from their judges for their emotional expression, musicality, and attention to detail that they brought to the stage that all contributed to an extremely successful and inspiring performance.