From Lizzie McAlpine’s “Reckless Driving” to Billie Eilish’s “Ilomilo,” the musical performances by Lincoln’s Vivace undeniably highlight the remarkable talents of the student artists.
Senior club president Flynn Fitzgerald explained that Vivace, “is not like a choir, it’s an ensemble, and we’re making fun music. It’s a place where people who don’t necessarily migrate towards choral music can go.”
Choral music, as described by Early Music American, focuses on the blending of voices (soprano, alto, tenor, bass). It includes various genres such as folk songs, classical motets and contemporary pieces. “Vivace,” which comes from the Italian word for bright and lively, is often used in orchestral, instrumental and vocal works to indicate a bright and energetic mood.
Fitzgerald stated that this year has been the group’s best since 2019.
“We have some amazing vocalists this year,” said Fitzgerald. “And I think the bond is really strong too, which is important.”
This year, Vivace placed third at the quarterfinals for the International Championship of High School A Cappella (ICHSA) at Sherwood High School and qualified to perform at the Semifinals in California. They also placed first at the Clackamas Community College festival and placed first at the Portland Interscholastic League (PIL) solo ensemble.
Vivace practices every Monday, Wednesday and Friday after school, on top of competitions and performances.
Junior Nathan Lopez transferred to Lincoln this year from Texas and joined Vivace as a way to fit into the larger Lincoln community.
“It’s more intimate than the bigger choir… I didn’t have a whole lot of stuff when I first moved here in August… Being able to be around these amazing people has been life-changing,” said Lopez.
Fitzgerald also believes that the community in Vivace is important.
“We all know a ton of stuff about each other,” said Fitzgerald. “During competition days, we go out and get food together or have little moments where we’ll just start singing random songs. We just click really well this year, and that’s important for performing on stage, “ said Fitzgerald.
Unlike Vivace clubs at other schools, Lincoln’s is entirely student-led, with student leaders, choreographers, vocalists and composers.
Although this makes it challenging at times, Lopez says that it is a very unique experience.
“Other schools have a lot of resources as directors or choreographers,” said Lopez. “I think that just us being just a club with the backing of teachers…has really been incredible.”
Vivace will be holding auditions for the 2026-2027 school year in May, so if you are interested, DM them on Instagram or look out for information on Trivory!
