Two Carl J Lamb Elementary students represented Sanford School Department with pride at the prestigious 2025 Maine American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) State Festival.
Congratulations to Aoife McGuckin-Welsch and Olan Clock, who were selected to participate in the Acadia Choir—an elite honors ensemble featuring just 75 students in grades 4-7 from across Maine. Being chosen for this selective group is a tremendous achievement that reflects their musical talent and dedication.
The festival took place on Saturday, May 24th at Mt. Ararat Middle School in Topsham. Aoife and Olan spent an intensive day—seven full hours—rehearsing alongside peers from schools throughout Maine under the expert guidance of Ms. Kelly Graeber, Artistic Director of the South Shore Children's Chorus in Massachusetts. Ms. Graeber is renowned in the choral community for her dynamic teaching style and ability to bring out the best in young singers. Watching our students grow and excel under her leadership was truly inspiring.
Throughout the day, Aoife and Olan developed advanced vocal techniques and musicianship skills, collaborated with students from diverse Maine communities, created beautiful high-level music as part of a larger ensemble, and represented Sanford School Department with excellence.