On January 31, 2025, these talented young musicians will take the stage at the Georgia Music Educators Association (GMEA) In-Service Conference, an event that only a select few middle school choruses are invited to perform at. Their performance will be held at 7:00 p.m. at Athens First Baptist Church in Athens, Georgia.
A Milestone for Hall County
This is a monumental achievement for Cherokee Bluff Middle School. It’s the first time in more than three decades that a group from Hall County or Gainesville City Schools has been chosen for this honor. The school’s chorus is also the first from the entire Northeast Georgia region, which includes over 65 schools, to be invited. Out of all middle school choruses in the state, Cherokee Bluff is one of only four to receive this prestigious invitation.
“It’s a huge accomplishment for these kids, and it speaks volumes about the level of talent and dedication in our community,” said Choral Director Emily Allison.
Performance Program: Hope for Humanity
Under the direction of Emily Allison, a well-regarded educator and recent recipient of the 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year award for Cherokee Bluff Middle School, the students will perform a piece titled Hope for Humanity: Building a Better Future. The program is a reflection of their commitment to using music as a force for positive change.
Allison, who holds both a Bachelor of Arts in Vocal Performance and a Master of Arts in Music Education from Piedmont College, has built a choral program that fosters both skill and empathy. The chorus is made up of non-auditioned students who share a deep passion for music, and Allison encourages them to embrace the motto “Together in Music,” promoting unity and collective growth.
Local Performance Ahead
Before their big performance at the GMEA conference, the Cherokee Bluff Middle School Chorus will collaborate with the Mill Creek High School Chorus for a special local concert on January 27, 2025. The event will take place at 7:00 p.m. at Hamilton Mill United Methodist Church, providing the community with a sneak peek at what’s to come.
