Grady Roberts (11) received the opportunity to send an audition to California Choral Directors Association Central Region Honor Choir. The song submitted was handpicked by Robert’s teacher, Mr. Nelson.  The piece being titled Caro Mio Ben is by Tommaso Giordani. 

In regards to the backstory and the reasoning of picking this piece, Roberts said, “It’s a crucial piece, if you’re going to be in choir, especially doing solos, you’re probably going to learn the song. Mr. Nelson thought it would be a good idea for us to learn the song regardless and the piece itself is beautiful. The title itself means thou art my bliss, which means you are my happiness.”

Roberts’ audition secured him a spot in the California Choral Directors Association Central Region Honor Choir. Roberts had to learn four different pieces Your Soul is Song, Veni, Sancete Spiritus, Traveler’s Hymn, and Afternoon on a Hill by November 18, 2023. 

Roberts headed off to the event on November 16, 2023 and stay at Stockton for three nights, rehearsing with everyone else who’s audition got accepted while being led by a famous composer, Jonathan Talberg.