Pella 8th Graders Sing National Anthem at Iowa Statehouse

Middle school choir performs for state legislators

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

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A group of 8th grade students from Pella Middle School, directed by choir teacher Joe Tangen, sang the National Anthem at the Iowa Statehouse this past week for state legislators.

Why it matters

The performance by the Pella Middle School choir is a demonstration of civic engagement and pride, with students taking an active role in the political process by providing a patriotic start to the day for Iowa's state lawmakers.

The details

The 8th grade choir from Pella Middle School, under the direction of choir teacher Joe Tangen, sang the National Anthem at the Iowa Statehouse on Thursday morning for the state's legislators. Representative Barb Kniff McCulla encouraged constituents to visit the Capitol during the ongoing legislative session.

  • The choir performed on Thursday morning.

The players

Pella Middle School

A public middle school located in Pella, Iowa.

Joe Tangen

The choir director at Pella Middle School who led the 8th grade choir in their performance at the Iowa Statehouse.

Barb Kniff McCulla

An Iowa state representative who reported on the Pella Middle School choir's performance and encouraged constituents to visit the Capitol.

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What they’re saying

“Constituents should make visits to the Capitol during the ongoing legislative session.”

— Barb Kniff McCulla, Iowa State Representative (kniakrls.com)

The takeaway

The Pella Middle School choir's performance at the Iowa Statehouse demonstrates the value of civic engagement and pride, with students taking an active role in the political process and providing a patriotic start to the day for state lawmakers.