Satterlin says the national anthem is one of the first songs choirs learn at the beginning of the school year, and it’s a song they’re constantly rehearsing and fine-tuning.

“We do it every day,” says Sutterlin.

High school choirs are asked to play “The Star-Spangled Banner” at many community events, but BalloonFest is a favorite event for students, according to Sutterlin.

“Even in August, students have been asking me when the Balloonfest is,” says Sutterlin.

Despite the early call time (the morning mass ascension is scheduled for 7:45 a.m.), Sutterlin says it’s fine to get the students up and ready for the event.

“They’ll all be there smiling because they’re really enjoying it,” Satterlin said.