South Haven News

By Trista Metzinger

On April 16, 2026, Keeley Coon, director of band and choir, led South Haven band and choir students to Ark City High School for State Large Group performances. They were accompanied by Sue Harris, who played piano for the choir pieces.

The choir performed first at 8:15 am in the small gym. They sang two pieces called “Carry the Light” and “Go Down, Moses.” Sydnie Goebel started “Carry the Light” with a solo. Allegedly, someone sang “did I shine my shoes today?” instead of the actual lyrics for one of the songs. However, the choir kids got a 2 rating overall.

The band played next at 9:15 am. They played two pieces titled “Joyant Winds” and “Song for Friends”. Multiple kids said they messed up on “Joyant Winds” on the walk back. However, the band was shocked to find out that they got a 3 rating overall. 

Despite this, the students still had fun at the nearby Wilson Park until Pizza Ranch opened at 11:00. They all ate plenty of food, trying to break their supposed record of 165 plates from last year. It is unknown if they broke the record or not, as they never counted. They were busy earning ducks and candy in the arcade. 

Even though the ratings were underwhelming, the South Haven band and choir did not stop having fun.