VWHS students to sing in All-State Choir

Van Wert High School information

Four members of the Van Wert High School Concert Choir have been selected to perform in Cleveland, Ohio, Friday, February 6, as members of the 2015 All-State Choir of the Ohio Music Education Association.

The four students are:

James Defore, son of Ron Defore and Jeanne Defore, is a senior at Van Wert High School. He sings baritone in the choir and plays the trombone in the band. Defore’s prior musical achievements include being selected four times for the OMEA District III Honors Choir. He has received superior ratings at OMEA solo and ensemble contests and is a member the Voices of Unity Youth Choir in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He is also very active in his church music activities as a member of the choir, handbell choir, Praise Band and as accompanist for the children’s choir. Defore can also be seen taking part in the drama productions at Van Wert High School.

Joseph Linser, the son of Jeff and Coranne Linser, is a junior at Van Wert High School.  He sings tenor in the choir. Linser has participated in OMEA District III Honors Choir, OMEA Solo & Ensemble contests, and the Van Wert High School Select Choir. He is also a member of the Van Wert High School football and swim teams, is a member of DeMolay and is an Ohio DeMolay state officer.  He is a member of the St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church youth group and also participates in Van Wert High School musicals.

Sandy Nguyen, daughter of Ted and Tina Nguyen, is a junior at Van Wert High School.  She sings soprano in the choir.  Nguyen has been selected two times for the OMEA District III Honors Choir. She has also received superior ratings at OMEA Solo & Ensemble contests, and is a member of the Van Wert High School Select Choir.

Nguyen is active in Student Council, BETA Club, National Honor Society, Spanish Club and Service Pack.  She is also very active in Van Wert High School musicals.

Jakob Schaufelberger, the son of Matt and Julie Schaufelberger, is a junior at Van Wert High School.  He sings bass in the choir. Schaufelberger has been chosen three times for the OMEA District III Honors Choir.  He has received superior ratings at OMEA Solo & Ensemble contests.  He is a member of the Van Wert High School Select Choir. Schaufelberger cantors and sings with his church’s choir. He is also a member of the Van Wert High School football team, and participates in school musicals

Approximately 100 of the best high school vocalists from across Ohio will participate in the All State Choir. They will perform at the OMEA State Convention at the Cleveland Convention Center.

Dr. Ethan Sperry, who is director of choral activities at Portland State University, will conduct the choir.