Central High School (CHS) seniors Ellie Riekhof, Mac Sheforgen, Madison Berndt, Wyatt Angell and Marcos Lira have grown up through the arts together and have spent countless hours alongside one another throughout their time in middle and high school at Salina Public Schools (SPS). From sharing classes and lunch periods to performing in musicals, theater productions and multiple choirs, the five have built strong resumes, honed impressive talent and formed lasting friendships.

Earlier this month, they shared another milestone together when they performed in the prestigious Honors Performance Series at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Their selection marked a record-breaking year for CHS choir as all five nominated seniors were chosen for the International Honors Choir, the most students CHS has ever sent to the program at one time.

Choir director Ryan Holmquist, in his eighteenth year of teaching at CHS, said the accomplishment is especially notable given the competitiveness of the program. The Honors Performance Series reviews thousands of applications from students representing more than seven different countries.

"To have five selected in one year is incredible," Holmquist said. "Typically, we might have one student selected at a time."

Alongside Holmquist and the variety of opportunities within the arts, the students credit one another’s support as a large contributor to their success, confidence and accomplishments. Holmquist credits their motivation and work ethic as part of what makes them successful. 

"They make my job easy," he said. "They are driven and they excel."

While in New York City, the students immersed themselves in the full Honors Performance Series experience. They rehearsed with world-renowned conductors and met and sang alongside fellow high school musicians from across the world. The group also explored the city, attending a Broadway musical, visiting Times Square, enjoying a boat ride, visiting iconic landmarks and experiencing other activities. 

Together, the five seniors not only represented CHS and SPS on one of the world’s most famous stages, but experienced a moment that reflects and celebrates years of preparation, dedication, a shared love of music, immense talent and friendship.

Congratulations again to Ellie Riekhof, Mac Sheforgen, Madison Berndt, Wyatt Angell, Marcos Lira and the CHS Choir program on this accomplishment!

*Photos courtesy of CHS student Wyatt Angell