From Oxford Middle School to Oxford High School, the choir programs are experiencing significant growth, creating opportunities for students to develop their musical talents and participate in exceptional performances.
Under the leadership of Dr. Hannah Ardrey at Oxford Middle School (OMS) and Dr. Thomas Ardrey at Oxford High School (OHS), both choir programs have experienced notable increases in enrollment. Dr. Hannah Ardrey joined the district in 2023, while Dr. Thomas Ardrey is currently in his 13th year leading the OHS choir program.
Since 2023, choir participation at OMS has grown from just 12 students to more than 65 today, a remarkable increase of more than 440%. This tremendous growth has contributed to increased participation at OHS, where choir enrollment has more than doubled.
As husband-and-wife choir directors, the Ardreys have a unique opportunity to foster a love of music at different stages of students’ educational journeys. Although they lead separate choir programs, they share a commitment to establishing a strong musical foundation at the middle school level that students can continue building upon throughout high school.
“The most rewarding aspect is getting to see the entire 7-12 product and not just the 7-8 or not the 9-12 product. Hannah gets to continue to see the fruits of her labor as her students come to the high school choir, and I get to begin building relationships with students before they get to high school,” said Dr. Thomas Ardrey.
Both the middle school and high school choir programs perform at least four concerts each year and participate in the Mississippi High School Activities Association (MHSAA) State Performance Assessment each spring. Students also have opportunities to participate in the All-State Honor Choirs.
Beyond these annual activities, both programs continue to achieve significant milestones. This month, the OMS choir will make district history with its performance at the Mississippi Music Educators Association and American Choral Directors Association state conference. The OMS choir will also travel to Orlando, Florida, in March for a competition at Walt Disney World.
Meanwhile, the OHS choir is preparing to travel to New York City to perform at Carnegie Hall in December. OHS students also have the opportunity to participate in the OHS Choir and Orchestra Masterworks Concert Series, performing alongside a full orchestra and professional soloists. Through these experiences, students gain valuable exposure to high-level musical performances and opportunities to learn from professional musicians.
Beyond musical development, choir helps students build skills that extend into other areas of their education and their lives. Participation helps students develop critical thinking skills, teamwork, foreign language skills, and an appreciation for different cultures.
While the Ardreys lead the choir programs at OMS and OHS, students’ musical education begins well before they enter either school. Music and choir educators across the district play a valuable role in introducing students to music and helping them build a strong foundation for continued participation in choir and other fine arts programs.
Oxford School District is grateful for the dedication of its music educators and the lasting impact they have on students across the district.
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