In the heart of Gonzaga, Mrs. Jenni Dunn has orchestrated a symphony of growth and harmony within the school’s choir program. With a passion for collaboration, Mrs. Dunn has guided the choir program into a thriving community of singers where students have been able to find their voice and passion. In her room, a bulletin board is covered with memories of choir experiences over the past few years. Beneath the bulletin board is a table covered in stacks of sheet music. Two students casually hang out, doing their homework, a scene that speaks volumes about the welcoming atmosphere Mrs. Dunn fosters.
“When I started, we had 47 people in the choir. We only had a chamber choir and two sections of choral arts. And then year two, we had 60 people, and we introduced the concert choir, the intermediate choir. This year, we are up to 71 people,” Mrs. Dunn said.
The choir has experienced substantial growth under Mrs. Dunn’s leadership. Not only has the number of students in the choir grown 151% since Mrs. Dunn’s first year, but the choir has also taken on more concerts than just the usual winter and spring concerts. Other performances that the choir has recently began performing at include a joint concert with Stone Ridge, Christmas caroling at Unique Residential, performing at a choir festival at the National Cathedral and even singing the National Anthem at a Washington Wizards game. Students in the choir program are very pleased with this growth.
“I am super proud of how the choir has progressed. Under Mrs. Dunn’s leadership, we have flourished,” said Riley Madden ‘24, choir leadership team member.
But it’s not just about the numbers; it’s about the transformational journey each student undergoes within the choir program. Younger students in the choir program have opportunities to develop as they progress through their singing journey. Members of choral arts are grateful for the caring, collaborative classroom dynamic.
“The choir program has transformed my classmates and me from a group of guys who had minimal singing experience into a proficient choir. The fun and collaboration in the choir room during our rehearsals have led to progress in my opinion,” said Sam Nester ‘26, a member of the choral arts class.
Mrs. Dunn is optimistic about the future of the program. Due to the culture of development, younger guys will be ready to step up as the program loses some of its senior leadership.
“The future is looking great. We have very strong sophomore and junior classes,” Mrs. Dunn said.
In a world often filled with discord, Mrs. Dunn’s students believe that her approach to leadership serves as a powerful reminder that with fun, kindness, shared goals and collaboration, great things can be achieved. These great achievements will continue during the choir’s trip to Disney World and beyond. The Gonzaga community agrees that through her dedication and passion, she not only guides beautiful vocal performances but also guides young minds, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those fortunate enough to be part of her choir family.