[Georgetown, South Carolina] — Waccamaw High School's Concert Choir has been selected as the official ambassador for the state of South Carolina in the 2023 Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade and the annual WWII commemoration, scheduled to take place from December 4-10 in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Under the direction of Sylvia Plyler, the choir has prepared a special repertoire that pays tribute to the brave men and women who served during World War II and celebrates music from the early 1900s. During the opening ceremony at the USS Arizona Memorial, they will join with other choirs from around the country in the performance of “America the Beautiful.’’ The students will also join other choirs during the parade in a performance of “The Star Spangled Banner,” which will be conducted by Plyler. Their performances will not only showcase musical excellence but also convey a deep sense of gratitude and remembrance for the sacrifices made.
"We are incredibly honored and excited to have the opportunity to represent Waccamaw High School, Georgetown County, and South Carolina at the 2023 Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade and WWII commemoration," said Plyler, Director of the Waccamaw High School Concert Choir. "Over the last year and a half, our students have worked diligently to raise money and prepare for our performances. As I look forward to the trip, I am most excited about seeing the students’ lives changed as they realize what was given for them.”
The choir's participation in this commemoration is not only a recognition of their musical achievements but also a unique educational experience for our students, offering them the chance to engage with history in a profound and meaningful life-changing way.
“This trip would not be possible without the support of our school, our community, the Pawleys Island Music Festival, and our WHS Chorus Booster,” shared Plyler. “Our goal of $120,000 was reached through generous donations from local families, businesses, and organizations and from money raised at our Veterans Day Gala and Silent Auction, Palmetto Giving Day, Music by the Bay.”
Plyler and the WHS Concert Choir will share information about their experience at the March 19 GCSD Board of Trustees Meeting.