State Rep. Bennie Cook kicked off the holiday season with the fourth annual Capitol Choir Performance, held on Dec. 4, 2024.

This heartwarming performance brought together the talented voices of students from around Missouri, which filled the halls of the Missouri State Capitol with the joyful sounds of the season. The event featured performances from choirs representing schools including West Plains, Howell Valley, Maries R-II (Belle), Cabool, Mountain Grove, Houston, Rolla, St. James, Licking, Salem, Mountain View/Birch Tree, Mansfield, Waynesville, Thayer and Ava.

“We were grateful for every school in attendance this year and for all those who came to support the students,” Cook said. “It is also important to thank the directors of the choirs and staff for helping put the event together and leading and training such talented performers. I would like to thank Senator Justin Brown, Senator Brad Hudson, Senator Jason Bean, Representative Tara Peters, Representative Ron Copeland, Representative David Evans, Representative Bill Hardwick, Representative-Elect Melissa Schmidt, Representative-Elect Lisa Durnell, Representative-Elect John Hewkin, Representative-Elect Keith Elliott & Representative-Elect Matt Overcast for helping me sponsor and host the event.”

This annual event has become one of the most anticipated traditions, spreading cheer and showcasing the talents of Missouri’s young vocalists. It serves as a reminder of the importance of the arts in education and the ties of community during the holidays.

To relive the magic of the day, the video can be located online at https://vimeo.com/event/4765028.

In addition, photos from performance are available on the official House account on Flickr, which can be found at https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjBU9aU.

Cook, a Republican, represents Texas, Maries and Phelps counties (District 143) in the Missouri House of Representatives. He was elected in November 2020.

For more information, email Cook at Bennie.Cook@house.mo.gov.

Doug Davison is a writer, photographer and newsroom assistant for the Houston Herald. Contact him by phone at 417-967-2000 or by email at ddavison@houstonherald.com.

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