In their vocal classes, the students often have to sing classical pieces in order to study the proper pitches and tones.
However, the school's annual Vocal Showcase is different - it includes pop songs, Latin hits, and jazz.
Wednesday night, several members of the school chorus will get to let their true talents come out as they perform in the annual Vocal Showcase in the school auditorium, beginning at 7 p.m.
The showcase has been an annual tradition at the school since the mid-1990s, giving the students a chance to express themselves freely in front of a usually packed audience.
"It's a chance for them to display their own personalities and identities," said Jennifer Penton, the school's voice teacher and choral moderator. "They definitely have a lot of talent and this is a chance for them to perform the kind of music that they like and add their own personal flavor. It's a chance for them to do their own thing."
Penton said that the vocal concert is usually a popular event.
"The whole student body likes to come and hear their classmates perform," Penton said. "It's like our own version of 'American Idol.' The kids tend to choose music that that others in the audience will enjoy."
For example, there will be several pop hits of today being performed, as well as jazz tunes, Latin music and hits from the 70s.
"It's really a nice mix of music," Penton said. "I truly believe that we have a tremendously talented group this year and they can match up with any of the singers that you hear or see on television."
Popular songs
Senior Nick Ferrer is going to sing the song "Everything," made popular by Michael Buble.
"I think it's great that I'm able to take a song and hopefully make it stand out," Ferrer said. "I'm also happy to be doing something others will be able to enjoy. Sure, there's a little nervousness, knowing that I'm going to be up there by myself. But I'm also really excited about it."
Ferrer will head to New Jersey City University in the fall to pursue a pre-law degree with a minor in music.
Fellow senior Alberto Lora will perform the song, "Wait For You," which was recorded by "American Idol" finalist Elliott Yamin.
"I just like the range of the song," Lora said. "I have a high voice and it's a song that I can belt out. I'm definitely excited about it. You can take a song you like and make it your own. You can also express your own talent a little."
Lora hopes to major in digital art and design in college, either in New York or Orlando.
Senior Idania Dominguez is scheduled to perform the song "Hurt," made popular by Christina Aguilera. She will also do a duet entitled "La Tortura," which was done by recording artists Shakira and Alejandro Sanz. Dominguez will perform the duet with classmate Jason Gonzalez.
Dominguez knows she has a tough task trying to duplicate the wide range that Aguilera usually sings at.
"I'm doing two totally different songs," Dominguez said. "Sure, I'm nervous. I've never sang a Spanish song before in front of an audience. I'm taking on a big challenge, but I think I'll be ready."
Dominguez said that she plans on studying interior design in college, possibly heading to the New York School for Interior Design.
"Music is more than just a hobby for me," Dominguez said. "It's a passion. I love singing. I'm just going to try to show people I have talent and entertain at the same time."
Fellow senior Amanda Baez, will sing "Big Girls Don't Cry," by Fergie.
"It's a catchy song I heard on the radio and I thought it would be fun to do for the showcase," Baez said. "I hope to catch people's attention by doing a song they know, but it's a little tough, because they might expect me to sing exactly like her."
Baez, who will major in musical theater at New Jersey City University, said that she's not nervous at all about the show.
"I'm happy to go on stage and perform," Baez said. "I'm a ham."
Tickets for the North Bergen High School Vocal Showcase Wednesday night at the North Bergen High School auditorium are priced at $5 and all proceeds go to the North Bergen Music Department. The concert begins at 7 p.m. and tickets are available at the door. For more information, contact the music department at (201) 295-2801.
Jim Hague can be reached via e-mail at either OGSMAR@aol.com or jhague@hudsonreporter.com
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