The Westlake Women’s Club reached out to TO’s Vocal Ensemble Choir in Dec. 2013 and requested a special holiday-themed show, and since then, the winter performance has become a staple in the club’s calendar. By providing a positive environment, the Women’s Club gives advanced singers a comfortable experience that allows them to express their talents. However, those unable to participate in this event can showcase their talents in the comforting arms of the TO choir ensemble department.
“Choir is a place where all students are welcomed and valued, and I love being that safe space for my singers,” Mrs. Janna Santangelo said.
Teaching at TO since 2012, Santangelo hopes to instill a lifelong love of music in every student who participates in this program and firmly believes that Choir is extremely unique, allowing each individual to contribute to the sound of the group. Choir also gives students the ability to showcase their talents even outside of the classroom.
Santangelos’ extra effort in preparing the students for festivals every year pays off, receiving high scores and gold rankings. Whether it’s festivals here in Thousand Oaks or down in Anaheim, Santangelo makes sure everyone has experiences and opportunities to be critiqued. Having the ability to sing and dance, the choreography sets TO’s Choir apart from other schools.
As a full-time accompanist, Su Fukagawa and Santangelo collaborate to make sure the Choir is prepared for events like those held at the Women’s Club each year.
Founded in 1968, the Women’s Club is a non-profit volunteer organization that supports the Thousand Oaks community in areas such as education, arts, children’s advocacy, preservation of natural resources, civic involvement and more. It welcomes women of all races and origins residing in the Conejo Valley area who show interest in commitment and voluntarism.
They are a committed group who strive to make a difference in their neighborhood. The choir puts on a winter performance for all members of the Women’s Club, including past club members known as Women Veterans. While the women enjoy their lunch, they hear holiday music ranging from Christmas to Hanukkah. Through this tradition, the Choir gains experience while entertaining the Women’s Club every year.