Choral Leadership Academy, known as CLA, is a brand-new club on campus. It emphasizes teaching choral skills to people that might not be able to take the class due to scheduling issues. Through using their beautiful voices to bring joy to their performances, this club is a really important addition to our school. Let’s learn more about CLA’s purpose through one of their officers.  

I interviewed Ara Cristel Mercado, the Vice President of CLA, and asked her how she would describe CLA to someone that wants to join. She said, “It’s just a club for everyone in West High to learn choral music altogether and spread music throughout the school.” This shows how the goal is to spread the musical spirit throughout the school. Including everyone is also very emphasized because it’s an alternative to being a part of the music program if you’re not able to be in a music class.  

I also asked Mercado what the goals for CLA are this year. She said, “My favorite part about choral leadership is just learning music and hear[ing] everyone singing in harmony… It also allows people who are shy or have never sung before and gives them an opportunity to sing in a group.” CLA is a fantastic opportunity to learn music, and it is a convenient and efficient way to get into music while doing a school activity. It is a great extracurricular place where you can also make friendships and bond through music.  

If you’re looking for a music related club to join on campus, CLA is an excellent choice. It is in a group, and you get to travel and make great friendships. If you want more information about the club, go visit their Instagram page at @westhighcla and be on the lookout for their upcoming meetings.