In Filipino heritage a signifigant part of the culture is singing. From religious ceremonies all the way to karoake with their friends, singing is a way for people to unite and enjoy themselves. For Marko Arceo, a sophomore on the RIpon High campus, singing helps him feel more connected to his culture and also shows that when a group of people join together for something their voice can be powerful .

Arceo began singing and participating in choir when he was around five years old. And as he continued to grow so did his love for the arts. When he entered into high school he decided to join the school choir in the bass section. With his years of experience and passion he fit into the group and now, is excelling farther than he ever thought he could. This year, Arceo applied to the  SATB (Stands for a mixed gender choir) state choir hoping to earn a spot in the bass section and he succeeded! When Arceo applied for this position over 600 applicants were considered and only 90 were accepted. When asked Arceo responded with, “ This award means a lot because it shows how I’ve developed my singing ability and also my music theory. Choir isn’t only about singing and there are so many components to understand. Winning this spot in the choir proves that when you believe in yourself you can accomplish so many things. ”  This group of students in the state choir will perform in numerous areas; they will perform a handful of different songs as well. While Arceo does not plan to major in music theory in the future he stated that it would be really difficult for him to stop singing all together. He stated that he would still participate in local music groups or anyway he felt would keep him connected to singing. 

For Arceo we wish him the best of luck while in the state choir and to the rest of his music endevors!