Vian High School students Zayley Cheater, Rayken Massey and Anthony Ruda are making their mark in the world of music after earning coveted spots in the Oklahoma Music Educators Association (OKMEA) All-State Choir. The trio competed in second-round auditions at the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond on Nov. 16, where more than 90 schools from across the state vied for a place in the prestigious ensemble. The hard work and dedication of these talented students paid off as all three were selected to join the All-State Choir, which will perform in Tulsa in January. This is an exceptional achievement, given the rigorous selection process and the challenging repertoire that is a hallmark of the OKMEA All-State program.
Zayley and Rayken, both seniors, are no strangers to the All-State Choir, with this year marking their third consecutive selection.
“These students have consistently demonstrated excellence, not just in their talent but in their work ethic,” Vian High School Choir Director Christina Herriman said. “Zayley and Rayken have been instrumental in the choir’s success, and their continued growth has been a joy to witness.”
Anthony, also a senior, has proven to be a standout not only in choir but in multiple musical disciplines. In addition to his vocal work, he is a gifted jazz pianist and composer. This past summer, he won the Southern Nazarene University (SNU) Camp All-State Talent Show with an original jazz composition performed on the piano.
“Anthony has come so far since joining the choir three years ago. His dedication to music is inspiring,” Herriman added.
The All-State Choir experience begins months before auditions, with students attending a summer camp at Southern Nazarene University to begin preparing their repertoire. The music is often in foreign languages and of collegiate-level difficulty, demanding long hours of practice and perfecting technique.
“I’m incredibly proud of how these students have balanced their rigorous academic schedules, jobs, and the demands of their music commitments,” Herriman said. “They are model students and incredibly disciplined.”
The choir’s accomplishments extend beyond individual honors. Zayley, Rayken and Anthony have played a key role in the success of the Vian High School Choir, which has earned multiple state titles in recent years.
Herriman, who has watched the students grow both musically and personally, expresses bittersweet pride as they near graduation.
“I’m sad to see Zayley and Anthony go, but I’m excited for their future. And I’m glad I have Rayken for one more year to continue to watch her grow,” she said.
In preparation for their All-State performances in January, the Vian Choir is seeking donations to help cover the costs of travel, lodging and meals during the event. The students will need to stay in a hotel due to the demanding rehearsal schedule in the days leading up to the performance at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center.
Contributions can be sent to Vian Public Schools at P.O. Box 434, Vian, OK 74962, or dropped off at the superintendent’s office. In addition to the fundraising effort, the Vian Middle and High School Choirs will present their annual Christmas Concert at 7 p.m. on Dec. 17, in the Vian High School Cafetorium. The concert is free and open to the public, and everyone is invited to attend and support the students as they showcase their musical talents.
For Zayley, Rayken, and Anthony, their journey to All-State is not just about musical success, but a reflection of the hard work, passion, and dedication that have characterized their time at Vian High School.
As they prepare for their upcoming performance in Tulsa, they are not just making music—they’re making memories that will last a lifetime.
