Madison W. to Represent QMS for Poetry in Voice

By Serena K. (’27)

Inspired by Maia C. (’24)’s ground-breaking win at the 2023 National Poetry-in-Voice Competition, poetry was a beloved humanities unit in the Grad 8/9 PBL Program this year. To carry on the newfound QMS legacy, students explored the Poetry-in-Voice website, and each chose a poem that stood out to them.

After analyzing, memorizing their poems, and getting some helpful advice from the reining PIV Champion, Maia C. (‘24), PBL students presented for their class competition.

Everyone performed at their best, but at the end of the day, only a select few could go on to present in chapel as class finalists. Grade 8 contestants were Ian N., Supriya P., Felo B., Julian L., and Katie S. From Grade 9, Clara L., Emma M., Keyu W., Madison W., and Georgia A. were also among those qualified.

Performing in front of the chapel can be nerve-wracking, but each performer handled the stress with an incredible amount of grace.

Competition remained stiff at the chapel finals. After several stunning performances such as Emma M. (’27)’s “The Ghosts of Women Once Girls,” Keyu W. (’27)’s “Blow Winter Winds,” and Georgia A. (’27)’s “Forgiving My Father,” Madison W. (’27) prevailed as the Grade 9 winner with her heartfelt performance of “Invitation to Love” and “You Didn’t Fit.”

At last, she took home the title of the 2024 QMS Poetry-in-Voice champion after a close match with Julian L. (’28), winning by only two points. With her nail-biting win, Madison will represent QMS in the national competition.

Regardless of the competitive results, students learned many valuable skills that apply beyond the realm of poetry. “I found it to be a wonderful experience that truly allowed me to come out of my shell and perform in front of people, which I had been terrified of before,” shared Clara L. (’27).

“If I could give any advice to next year’s contestants, I would tell them to forget anyone is around and stop caring what people might think,” continued Clara. “Perform like you have never performed before and give it your all.”

Congratulations to Madison, who did a wonderful job, and we all wish her the best of luck in the online competition.