Wake County choirs hit the big stage Monday in nation's capital

Singers from Athens Drive, Leesville Road and Garner high schools were among six choirs in the country chosen to perform at the festival. They took center stage at 2 p.m. Monday. 

For the 35 singers from Athens Drive who went through intense auditions to become part of the school's premier vocal ensemble, Monday's performance was a chance to show off several months of hard work. 

"These students are the cream of the crop and they're the top here at Athens Drive," choral teacher Joy Clayton said. "It's an incredible opportunity for them to grow."

Since October, ensembles from all six performing choirs have been practicing the songs they planned to sing for President Barack Obama Monday. The choirs from Wake County sent videos of their works to be chosen for the festival. 

"Our choral departments from Wake County, we must be getting something right," Athens Drive sophomore Matthew Washington said. 

Athens Drive senior Mande Monchick said the fact that three schools from Wake County all get to attend Monday's festival will make performance more memorable. 

"Not many people can say they've performed at the Kennedy Center," she said. "It's a great opportunity, but it makes it even better we get to do it with Garner and Leesville."

The students are also getting to do some sightseeing during their trip to the nation's capital.