The Chamber Choir of Grand Rapids (CCGR) is preparing for a packed house for its biggest performance yet, A Choral Collaboration. At the same time, Grace Geer, a sophomore majoring in business administration at Davenport University, is charting a unique path that blends school, work and a passion for music.
Geer’s singing career began in the fourth grade, and her passion for music continued to grow through middle school. When she was a senior at Caledonia High School, she was involved in three choirs and completed an independent study in choral program administration. During this time, she also put together a program for the Michigan Music Conference, and her efforts did not go unnoticed.
In fall 2023, Geer began her journey with the CCGR as a board member and singer after Kara Stevens, her high school choir director, invited her to join. “When Kara, who is the director of the CCGR asked me to join, I was really excited,” Geer explained. “Choir has been my passion for a long time. I love singing, and I love the behind-the-scenes aspect, so it’s a great fit for me.”
Geer took on the role as singer logistics coordinator for the CCGR in early 2024. In this position, she coordinates singer events, attendance, concert logistics, designs programs and manages social media for the choir. So far, Geer has designed four programs for the choir to perform.
This past spring, Geer invited Kaitlin Oster, her Davenport English professor, to a CCGR choir performance. Since then, Oster has attended several performances that have included Geer and has been impressed with what she has seen.
“I admire Grace for her dedication to academics, her passion for music, and how she manages her work responsibilities, and I’m thrilled to support her inside and outside of the classroom,” said Oster. “She is one of the youngest singers in the CCGR, so that is really special.”
Geer never tires of expressing her love for the choir and her passion for singing. “I love watching the faces of my fellow choir members, director and audience when they enjoy one of our performances,” she said. “It is hard to find people who share the same passions as you, and I am glad I have found a group who understands that.”
Geer said the CCGR holds auditions for new members every summer and encourages those who are interested to learn more by visiting the CCGRs website.
In addition to singing and studying, Geer stays busy working at Butcher Block Social in Caledonia. As the kitchen manager, she is in charge of the entire back-of-house team and manages the kitchen for all catering events. She hopes to eventually work her way up to become the general manager or an equivalent role.
When it comes to school, Geer said things are going well. “Davenport’s business program compliments things that I already am doing at my current job and is helping to improve my management skills,” she said. “I know I’ll be able to apply what I’m learning to my future career.”
Geer is looking forward to the CCGRs A Choral Celebration performance, which is slated for February 10 at Caledonia High School.
“This will be our biggest concert of the year, and we expect to fill the house and even possibly sell out of tickets,” she said.. “I am super excited and look forward to performing in my old high school auditorium with many of my friends as we show off our passion and hard work,” Geer said.
The performance will include the CCGR, Grand Valley Choirs and Caledonia High School Choirs. To reserve tickets, visit the CCGRs website.
Geer’s dedication and ability to balance her many commitments is inspiring, and her journey exemplifies how one can harmonize internal passions with professional aspirations.
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