Director Spotlight!
Get to know Josh Lenhardt!
Josh Lenhardt began singing in high school, starting with Concert and Jazz Choir (The Topnotchers of Willamette High School), then graduated and sang with the University of Oregon concert Choir, Gospel Choir, and Gospel Singers - and ended up singing with On The Rocks from 2006-2009 where he gained the majority of his a cappella experience and knowledge. He has also sang in shows at the Hult Center through the Shedd, adjudicated ICCAs (International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella), and been a clinician at several a cappella festivals throughout Oregon. With his enthusiasm, energy, and attention to musicality and performance, Josh has made Some Cool Guys a sought after group to be in.
What's your favorite past time?
Spending time with my wife and kids, Floating the McKenzie River, playing video games, and watching tv
What was one of your favorite songs as a teen?
Journey - Separate Ways
Favorite Restaurant?
Previously Lucky Noodle - since they have gone out of business - Beppe and Giannis
Who is one of your favorite singers?
Peter Hollens
How did you get interested in music and choir?
Two of my best friends in high school encouraged me to audition for Concert Choir - Josh Reiswig and Whitney Bernard. Once I auditioned, Mr. McCornack was the director at Willamette High School and is the biggest reason I fell in love with music and continue to have music involved in my life.
Who is your favorite composer?
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
What would be the greatest performance of your life?
Performing on a live stage with Pentatonix and Peter Hollens together :)
What is one of your favorite moments with OCC?
Every day is incredible getting to work with the kids - but I would say if I had to pick a singular moment it would be a tie, both being at competition last year at ICHSA's. First was during the warm up periods - my kids had the gym area (the largest area) and decided to go out and tell other groups when they were done warming up they could join us in the gym to hang out together. They started a circle song, and it grew from our two groups, all the way until I believe every single group was a part of the circle - well over 150 kids singing together and uniting in music before they all went head to head at a competition. It was incredible to see the kids be so open and welcoming to the other groups that were there and bring that community of kids from all over together. The second is after the competition - our kids didn't place but were all proud of each other. Some Cool Guys and Synergy, some smiling, some crying, all circled together and sang "Coming Home". It is our joint song for the groups and we didn't prompt or encourage anything - they did it all on their own. They all hugged, and cried as my wife and I stood back and watched the bond we had helped create among all the kids there. It was... amazing.
Any closing thoughts?
I am very grateful for the opportunity to work for OCC and with these kids each week. It is a huge part of my life and I wouldn't trade it for anything.
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