News Post

Visitation's freshman chorus and Madrigals made it to the first round of the 97.1 WASHFM high school Christmas caroling competition with their rendition of "Joy to the World," an arrangement by accompanist Andreas Haberlin; voting continues through December 9 to make the second round. 

"We are excited to be honored in the first round this year," said Performing Arts Director Dr. Elizabeth Turner. "There are many wonderful choirs in the DMV area, so we know it is a tough competition, but also a fun way to support one another. Recording days are always fun in our classes, and a great learning experience for our students to then hear the final song playing on your local radio station! This year we thought 'Joy to the World' would bring inspiration to all."

"Recording Joy to the World was an amazing experience. I enjoyed using the cool microphones and wearing the techy headphones, as well as hearing my peers’ beautiful voices sing such a delightful song," said freshman chorus member Autumn. "I truly had an amazing time, and I hope we can win the 97.1 contest this year!" 

"Joy to the World is one of my favorite Christmas songs, and I love the message of hope and joy for Christ’s birth," said Madrigal Elisabeth '27. "I hope listeners will appreciate our hard work and vocals we put into it as well as the message of the song. It was a lot of fun to practice and record the song and I hope anyone who listens to it has fun singing along."

Freshman chorus member Kara enjoys hearing their song on the radio; it will play through Christmas. "When I hear Visitation’s chorus and Madrigals I feel so proud and happy for us," she said. "We have worked hard and I am so glad the hard work and dedication has paid off."

"Having the support of Visi's amazing community going into this competition means the world to me! As someone who loves music, and believes that sharing it brings all of us closer together, thinking about our community listening to the Christmas piece we created and voting for us brings joy to my heart," said Madrigal Oleena '26.

The winning choir could earn up to $5,000 for their program and will perform at Miracle on 34th Street, the Musical at Capital One Hall in Tysons. 

"The arts across the nation are typically the most underfunded during the holiday season. A prize of $5K would be tremendous for us," said Dr. Turner. "Regardless of the outcome, we are just excited to spread the joy through music this holiday season!"

"Winning the competition can lead the way to further strengthening our Music Department and creating more opportunities for our amazing artists to share and practice their gifts," said Oleena. "As a senior who has been part of Visi Arts for four years, I can think of no better way to give back!"