For the past nine years, the Northwestern Singers have held a benefit concert every November, featuring school choirs from all over Austin.

The ticket money always goes to the performing choirs, but this year is special. After nine years and almost $3,000 this year, the Northwestern Singers have raised more than $30,000 for Austin’s choirs.

“It’s a great fundraiser,” said Kelsey Korfhage, Pacelli’s music director. “Its wonderful what the Northwestern Singers do for the community each year.”

Many grade school choirs from Austin Public Schools participate, along with Ellis Middle School’s choir, the Austinaires from Austin High School and the NWS. These choirs perform separately, but every choir gets together on at least one or two songs.

“People come now just to hear that,” said Alice Holst, one of the NWS members.

Korfhage enjoys going to the concert every year. It’s also very important for Pacelli’s music department.

“They count on that money for buying music and purchasing instruments,” she said.

Since Pacelli’s music department budget comes entirely from fundraisers, the November concert is one of several crucial events that helps maintain the program.

“So that’s really a vital part of our year,” Korfhage said.

The NWS will perform its annual January show Saturday at the Paramount Theatre. This year’s theme, “Hey! I Know That Song!” means the NWS will perform many classics and well-known tunes including Disney songs and disco tracks. They even include costumes and choreography.

“We have lots of choreography, so we’ll be dancing up a storm,” Holst said.

Although November has come and gone, many community members are looking forward to the next benefit concert.

“We really like supporting the youth to keep singing,” Holst said.