Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District Winter Choir Festival Showcases High School Choral Excellence and Collaboration

On Tuesday, December 2, the Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District hosted its annual Winter Choir Festival at the Valencia High School Auditorium, bringing together student musicians from El Dorado, Esperanza, Valencia, and Yorba Linda High Schools for an evening of choral performance and collaboration. Under the direction of Marlon Santizo (El Dorado High School), Michael Klein (Esperanza High School), Megan Arthurton (Valencia High School), and Bincins Garcia (Yorba Linda High School), the festival highlighted the artistic growth, musical skill, and expressive depth of the district’s secondary choral programs. The event was hosted by Dr. Elisabeth Summers, Visual and Performing Arts Coordinator for PYLUSD, who welcomed attendees and recognized the continued strength of the district’s music education programs.

Each ensemble contributed a distinctive musical perspective to the program. Yorba Linda High School opened the festival with an engaging performance that incorporated jazz elements and seasonal selections, demonstrating ensemble cohesion alongside expressive solo performances. Esperanza High School followed with a varied repertoire that balanced traditional choral literature with contemporary works, showcasing both nuanced interpretation and full ensemble power. Valencia High School continued the program with performances characterized by rhythmic vitality, refined harmonies, and strong musicianship from both combined choirs and vocal jazz ensembles. El Dorado High School concluded the individual choral performances with a thoughtfully curated set that transitioned seamlessly from reflective winter themes to uplifting, celebratory selections.

Throughout the evening, musical accompaniment was provided by the Esperanza High School Sinfonia Orchestra, directed by Matthew Fang. While the festival primarily emphasized choral performance, the orchestra contributed significant musical depth through a diverse repertoire that included a classic holiday selection as well as contemporary K-pop works, Soda Pop and Golden. The orchestra’s versatility and technical proficiency enhanced the overall program and supported the collaborative nature of the event.

The festival concluded with a combined performance by all participating choirs and the Sinfonia Orchestra of Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus. The collective sound of the ensembles created a powerful and unifying conclusion, underscoring the capacity of music to foster connection, shared experience, and celebration within the school community.

The 2025 Winter Choir Festival reflected the dedication of participating students, the instructional leadership of choral and instrumental directors, and the continued support of families, administrators, and the broader community. The event served as a meaningful demonstration of the essential role that visual and performing arts play in enriching student learning and strengthening the community across the Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District.