Celebrating 30 Years of Bemidji Show Choirs

For the past 30 years, Bemidji Show Choirs have been lighting up stages at competitions across the Midwest as well as right here at home. Vocalmotive began competing in 1996, and to this day, Bemidji High School remains one of only a dozen schools in Minnesota with a competitive show choir program.

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Originally formed as a vocal jazz group, Vocalmotive transitioned into a “swing/pop choir” when Chris Fettig became Director of Choral Activities at BHS in 1987. Over his first seven years, the group gradually evolved into a full-fledged show choir, incorporating dance, costumes, and a live band.

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In 1996, Vocalmotive made its competitive debut at two events: Onalaska, WI and Totino-Grace, MN. For its first three competitive seasons, the group was choreographed by BHS alumnus Sam Kivi. In 1999, Mr. Fettig began a 23-year collaboration with professional choreographer April James. During that time, Vocalmotive earned an impressive 22 Grand Champion titles, along with 10 Best Vocals awards, 10 Best Instrumental Combo awards, and 22 Best Choreography awards.

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The program expanded in 2002, when middle school director Will Seykora and choreographer Kevin Chase established the BMS show choirs Pizzaz and Jive. Two years later, in 2004, a second competitive group at BHS—La Voce Ballo—was founded under the direction of Talia Zeman with choreography by Kevin Chase. Since its inception, La Voce Ballo has claimed more than 18 Grand Champion titles and numerous Best Band awards.

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From its jazz roots to its rise as a competitive force, the Bemidji Show Choir program continues to be a shining example of musical excellence, student dedication, and performance artistry. performance artistry.