Elementary schools in Red Deer Public and from around Central Alberta have been perfecting their vocals in anticipation of Choir Kids.

The event, which sees student choirs perform with the Red Deer Symphony Orchestra, takes place April 24 and May 1 at Gaetz United Church (4758 50 St., Red Deer).

“It’s really unique. There are no other schools or symphonies that we know of that put something like this on,” said Kati Ramsden, Music Teacher at Don Campbell Elementary School. “This is such a unique opportunity for our students to have the Symphony playing their music. They are excited.”

Ramsden sent the school’s choir music to Red Deer Symphony Music Director, Maestro Claude Lapalme, who initially started the event, and he arranges it for the Symphony to play. The Symphony then accompanies the choirs.

Preparations for the event start right after Christmas and along with Red Deer Public, school divisions in the surrounding area are participating as well.

“Most of these students and their families haven’t really been exposed to this type of music or these types of events,” said Ramsden. “It’s been exciting and it’s been neat to connect with the music teachers around the Division and surrounding area as well.”

The partnership is truly a win-win.

“We’re pretty lucky in Red Deer to have a Symphony Orchestra. We’re a small city and it’s good for the RDSO as well as for our schools. They get to reach out to people who normally wouldn’t come to a concert. It’s a great community outreach event, said Ramsden.

Tickets can be purchased online at rdso.ca.