From demanding rehearsals to stressful academic life, one thing’s for certain: members of the Pinewood choirs are ready to feel the Disney magic. Luckily for them, Pinewood Singers and Women’s Chorus are preparing to embark on a trip to Disneyland on March 10, where they will be performing the songs that they have been learning this year in class. 

The setlist, featuring pop-inspired tunes, folk songs, and ‘50s jazz, was carefully curated by choir director Katie Linza. The list includes “Bring Me Little Water, Sylvie” by Huddie Ledbetter, “Winter Winds” by Mumford and Sons, and “New World” by Björk. 

In addition to performing their rehearsed setlist at Disney California Adventure Park, the choir will also enjoy a full itinerary of activities in the area.

“We’re going to see an improv show the night we get there on Friday,” Linza said. “On Saturday, we perform in the park, and then, on Sunday, we do a workshop with one of the Disney artists there.”

Junior Autumn Porter-Schulz attests to the building excitement among choir members for the Disneyland trip.

“I’m really excited because I love Disneyland so much and I love singing, so it’s a two-for-one,” Porter-Schulz said.

While Disney’s trademarked positivity seems to be enveloping the choirs, they remain cautious in their confidence about being able to rehearse and perfect their performance in time.

“I’m a bit nervous about learning and memorizing our songs in time,” Porter-Schulz said.

While Porter-Schulz worries about rehearsals, Linza’s main concern is about the toll that such a performance can take on the performers.

“The thing that I worry about for myself and others is stamina,” Linza said. “Some people at Disneyland open and close it from 8 a.m. to midnight, and I cannot do that. That’s the hardest for me.”

Despite inconveniences or potential setbacks that Linza views as minor, she maintains that the trip is meant to be a positive experience for everyone involved.

“Yes, we’re going to go sing and do musical things, but, really, I think this is just a great experience,” Linza said. “It’s a fun way to have fun with your friends, and choir is like a group of friends. That’s the greatest thing about it.”