If you’re in high school and decide to become a musician, you have a few routes to take. You can post your performances on social media, start a garage band with your friends, or join an established ensemble at your school. You might choose choir, band or orchestra—each a great option. But what if you could be part of all three?
The music directors at Viewmont High School couldn’t stop imagining the possibilities, so they made their dream a reality.
In 2023, Director of Bands Dan Chaston, Choir Director Kasey Bradbury, and Orchestra Director Anna Smith joined forces to create the Viewmont Symphony Chorus. Comprised of over 160 students, the massive ensemble produces a powerful sound that commands the audience’s full attention.
"It's a project we've been discussing for a little while, and we wanted to make something truly great happen—to bring all of these students together, each making wonderful music, so we could collaborate and explore a different type of musical experience,” Chaston said.
The music community quickly took notice. Soon, an invitation arrived to perform at the 2025 Utah Music Educators Association conference general session. People wanted to hear their music. Excited, the students boarded buses and traveled to St. George, Utah.
The Viewmont Symphony Chorus delivered a performance of a lifetime.
"It was one of the most thrilling moments we've ever experienced,” Bradbury said. “The kids changed lives. Teachers sobbed through the performance. Again and again, we were told how inspiring and healing their music was.”
For many students, this was their final performance together. Now, it’s time for the next class to carry on what will surely become a legacy at Viewmont High School.
