Jarrettown Choir Performs on Steps of State Capitol

Politicians and residents milling about Harrisburg in late December had an extra dose of holiday cheer this year, after the Show Choir performed on the steps of the state capitol building.

37 fourth and fifth-grade students made the trip on December 21, after the choir's instructor, teacher Brian Stoudt, organized the trip with the office of state representative Tom Murt (R-152).

"We worked in conjunction with [Rep. Murt], and he and his office were able to get this up and running," said Stoudt. "Representative Murt was able to meet us at the bus and accompany us through the morning."

Stoudt says that before the students' big performance, they were treated to a tour of the building and some instruction from Murt himself.

"I think they really enjoyed having someone of government authority share information with them," said Stoudt. "He went over a lot of things they study; the beginning of government, how the bill becomes a law and what lawmakers do."

The students then gathered on the steps of the rotunda to sing roughly 15 holiday and winter-themed pieces to passersby. Stoudt says he believes the youngsters enjoyed the whole trip, but especially performing in such a unique space.

"The space is pretty amazing-- it's a huge space and has a number of different aspects that make it pretty incredible," Stoudt said. "They love singing in general, and have been to a few retirement homes this year, and keep getting better."

Stoudt says that Murt later hand delivered packages to the students, including everything from pamphlets to color-in work books. Murt also congratulated the choir in an official release.

"The children performed superbly and provided outstanding and uplifting entertainment to the capitol community," Murt wrote. "It was very evident that the children and Mr. Stoudt worked very hard in preparation for the performance."

Stoudt says that it is the fifth time in ten years that the show choir has traveled to the state capitol, and that he hopes it's a trip the group will continue to make.