More than 30 years of tradition will be at hand in Austin tonight.

The Austinaires and Choralaires take the stage this weekend in Christgau Hall for the 2011 Austinaires Show looking to carry on the legacy of the Austinaires before them.

“It takes a lot of work, a lot of time, a lot of preparation ahead of time,” said Brian Johnson, choir director. Johnson and the students have worked since the end of December putting the show together.

The Austinaires show began in the 1970s, according to Johnson. While the formatting and the direction may have changed, Johnson said the one thing that remains is the quality of the performances each student gives.

“I definitely feel honored to be an Austinaire,” said Jordan Bentley, junior.

This year’s show, “The Time of My Life,” revolves around catchy pop and rock music from recent times, whether it be Elvis, Avril Lavigne, the Beatles or other hits. The real treat of the Thursday, Friday and Saturday performances are that each one will be a unique performance.

There are 20 seniors in the Austinaires this year and three seniors in the Choralaires. Each senior gets their own song to perform, whether it be a solo, duet or other piece. Each senior will get their own night to perform, along with group performances all three nights.

“It’s an honor and a privilege,” said Kalle Akkerman, senior.

Yet it’s not just the seniors that are having fun. Everyone involved is excited to be apart of this tradition.

“I’ve always dreamed of being a Choralaire up on the stage,” said Mollie Eich, sophomore. “I’m so excited, I can’t wait.”

Seniors pick their own songs to perform, which makes for some intriguing performances according to Johnson.

“We’ve had a really interesting group of selections in senior spotlight performances,” Johnson said. “It’s always fun to discover what kids are listening to, what they like, and how they pass it on to the next generation.”

For those who get to perform their own pieces, it’s a treasure. Molly Bisson, senior, will perform Janis Joplin’s “Me and Bobby McGee,” with her older brother Ray accompanying her on guitar. Growing up in a musical family, she had been exposed to Bob Dylan and other folk musicians from an early age. She’s very excited about her performance, especially with the challenge a Joplin song presents.

“She’s quite the projectionist, that Janis Joplin,” Bisson said. “I’m going to try to channel her.”

The 2011 Austinaires Show will take place at 7 p.m. April 7, 8 and 9 in Christgau Hall. Tickets are $6 for adults, $4 for students and senior citizens and can be purchased at HyVee or the AHS Cashier. Tickets will be $1 more at the door the night of the performances.