Conductor, Edryn Coleman

Ensemble Statement: "The choral program at Oakland Mills High School is well established and has been an active part of the school since it opened in 1973. The consistent mission of our choral community is to create and provide a safe space where all students are welcomed and excited to create a shared understanding of musical excellence. Our school philosophy is “We are OM..We are Strongest Together--Moving Forward Together”. It is a motto that can be seen even in our daily rehearsals. Each rehearsal begins with greeting each other. Then into our routines of vocal warm-ups, musical reading exercises, and score practice. The Oakland Mills Community is one of the most diverse school communities within the Howard County Public School System in Maryland with roughly an 80% minority enrollment: 44.4% Black, 20.8% Hispanic, 19.7% White, 7.2% Asian, and 7.7% two or more races. The ethic percentages of the singers is just as diverse which shows the unique make-up of our school and represents a true reflection of the community at large. Our singers are Christian, Muslim, Atheist and are open members of the LGBTQIA + community. All come together as a part of the choral program without bias or prejudice for the greater good of the program and the community at large. For example, the choir partners and performers for the WBAL radio station to help raise money for their “Campaign for Kids” Christmas fundraiser each year. From our Black Student Achievement Program, to our Anime Club, to our Young Democrats to our Gay Straight Alliance; Oakland Mills High School is a place where all can belong and can sing together. Neither ethnicity, religion, sexuality, nor finances interfere with our efforts to promote diversity in the school and in the community at large."