The story of the Valkyries began in 2016 during their Sophomore year of High School. The girls all sang in the same choir, but in different voice parts... funny isn't it? At the time, their choir teacher was on maternity leave so they had a substitute. Who could've known that their choir substitute was going to be someone who would change their lives for the better? Janice Kueppers was their choir substitute and barbershop mastermind for the remaining time. She invited the choir to a barbershop workshop she was hosting and it happened to be that the four of them went! With the girls being different parts, they decided to form a quartet that same day!
With the addition of their new lead, Emma Castillo, Valkyries entered a new chapter defined by perfect timing and undeniable chemistry. What began as a hopeful opportunity quickly felt like destiny, as their sound and connection flourished from the very first rehearsal. Nearly two years later, they continue to sing together, grateful for the alignment that brought them together and the musical journey they now share!
Valkyries wouldn't be who they are without their wonderful director, Janice Kueppers. Janice Kueppers was a retired music educator and was a Sweet Adelines Member for 40+ years. Janice showed great pride in being the Verdugo Hills Chorus Associate Director in California and was known for creating the best puns! She has made such a big impact on our lives, and we plan on spreading the joy and love she had for barbershop to others.
Valkyries would also like to extend their gratitude to Verdugo Hills Chorus from Region 11! From giving the Valkyries extra comfort and hospitality in the barbershop community to more confidence performing in front of an audience, The Valkyries thank you and love you!
Where did "Valkyries" come from?
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When the quartet first started, the girls didn't realize they needed a name to compete in upcoming competitions, considering their first performance was at their choir concert in High School. They liked the idea of combining their school mascot, a Viking, with their name. The Valkyries' talented bass, Sarah, was taking a mythology class that year and discovered who the Valkyries were! In Viking mythology, the Valkyries were known to carry fallen soldiers to Valhalla while singing their praises! The Valkyries loved how different the name was and being named after brave singing warrior angels!
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What does the logo mean to Valkyries?
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The logo represents Valkyries in several ways. The sun represents sunny California, which is where Grace, Sarah, and Kayla were born and raised. The sun also resembles the Filipino flag, which Kayla takes much pride in!
Nominations:
Novice Recipient - Sweet Adelines International in Columbus, Ohio 2025
18th Place - Sweet Adelines International in Columbus, Ohio 2025
3rd Place - Region 11 Quartet Contest 2025
2nd Place - Region 11 Quartet Contest 2023
1st Place - International Rising Star Quartet Contest in San Antonio, TX 2022
Audience Choice Quartet - Region 11 Quartet Contest 2022
4th Place - Region 11 Quartet Contest 2022
1st Place - Region 11 YWIH Rising Star Quartet Contest (Fall Festival) 2019
3rd Place - International Rising Star Quartet Contest in Manchester, UK 2019
1st Place - Region 21 YWIH Rising Star Quartet Contest 2019
1st Place - Region 11 YWIH Rising Star Quartet Contest 2019
8th Place - International Rising Star Quartet Contest in Tulsa, OK 2018