Choir and Guitar Programs
Choir Performing Groups
The Northgate choral music program currently consists of 3 ensembles from all grade levels. The choirs perform numerous shows throughout the year and cover a wide variety of genres. Our talented level 3 choirs, Mads and Belles, are also available for hire.
Madrigals (Vocal Music Honors) is an A Period mixed choir course which requires an audition in the spring and is open to 10-12th grade students of all vocal parts. The madrigals have a standing residency at the Shadelands Farmer's Market on Saturdays, and make seasonal appearances as well, in addition to their in-school performances and shows.
Bella Voce (Vocal Music Honors) is an advanced choir course which requires an audition in the spring and is open to 10-12th grade students who can sing Alto, Soprano I or Soprano II. The Belles have a standing residency at the Lesher Center during the holidays, and make seasonal appearances as well, in addition to their in-school performances and shows.
Choir and Guitar YouTube Channel
About the Director
Georgia Friend is an educator, musician, and academic, who is dedicated to fostering authentic, impactful, and equitable experiences in choral spaces. Her teaching philosophy is centered around community building, self-expression, and responsibility. Her research focuses on exploring the intersection of individuals' lived experiences, identities, mental health, and their musical journeys within choral music programs.
Ms. Friend currently serves as the Director of Choirs here at Northgate High School, overseeing three choirs and two guitar classes. Previously, she directed choirs and taught music production at Deer Valley High School in Antioch, CA. She has also had the privilege to intern with the Oakland Youth Chorus, and has a background in teaching private voice and piano lessons.
Ms. Friend earned her BA in Music from California State University, East Bay, where she studied both voice and music education. She is currently pursuing a MM in Music Education at Eastern Washington State University, where her thesis will discuss the positive impacts of singing and music education on the mental health of teenage students. Her teachers and mentors include Laura Carreon, Dr. John Eros, Dr. Buddy James, LaNell Martin, and Dr. Chad Zullinger.