A lot of people don’t believe me when I tell them I spend 4 hours a week attending a 1 unit class. And a lot of people doubt that I don’t dread (most the time) going to this class. Then again, a lot of people aren’t involved in musical ensembles–namely choir. Despite being required because of my Vocal Performance major, I have had the honor of being involved in LU’s choir program all three years I’ve been here, and would love to shed some light (this is a pun b/c Light was the theme of our last concert) on the subject.
Often while talking with prospective students, someone will say “I’ve been singing since I was a lil munchkin, and in choir all four years of high school! But my greatest passion is biomedical engineering, and I won’t be able to minor in music because I’m also a whiz at gender studies, please tell me there is some way I won’t have to give up my love of singing!” Well, overly multi-interested prospie, do I have good news for you. Here at Lawrence we have three choirs, ALL open to ALL majors. Yes, both Viking Chorale and the advanced groups–Cantala and Concert Choir–are open to any major or degree program, you name it. That being said, the advanced ensembles often have more music majors on their roster for somewhat obvious reasons.
And how does one become involved in this illustrious program? 2 ways.
1. Just sing (I mean… sign*) up.
All you need is a voice and a desire to share it with the world to become a member of Viking Chorale. This choir meets twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays with Dr. Stephen Sieck as conductor to prepare pieces to sing at our many concerts through the year. Despite being the “ya’ll come” choir, I am always beyond impressed with the artistry this group presents, and their ability to tackle some difficult works. The size of the choir is based on how many people want to be a part of it, and while you may be asked to sing for Dr. Sieck for voicing reasons, you do not need to audition.
2. Audition
During spring term of the previous year, auditions are held for returning students (new students can audition when they arrive on campus in the fall) for the (more) advanced choirs–Cantala and Concert Choir. These choirs meet four days a week, Monday-Thursday, and tackle beautiful pieces as well as larger works of oratorio. They perform in the same concerts as Viking Chorale, and even get to wear matching gowns/tuxedos. Although my view is a little biased by many auditions of the past, this audition is pretty relaxed, but usually contains some sight reading, vocal exercises, tonal recall (they play notes in an order, and you repeat them back) and a prepared piece chosen by the conductors.
And notice I say conductorS. Yes, Lawrence’s Choirs have T*W*O conductors, who equally work with both Cantala and Concert Choir. This includes Dr. Sieck and Dr. Phillip Swan, who both choose pieces to prepare with the choirs. While it is sometimes funny to watch your conductor run out of the room and high five the other who is entering, there are many advantages to this system. The singers of the choirs are exposed to different teaching and performing styles, and the two can collaborate alla two-heads-are-better-than-one style.
What are some of the other fabulous attributes of LU’s choirs? To name a few…
- all concerts are live stream-able on the LU web cast! My Michigander parents love this, as do anyone who simply can’t bear the cold to make it to the chapel
- Concert choir and Cantala members go on a retreat to Bjorklunden at the beginning of the year–very fun, highly recommended, pretty silly.
- You get to know some talented, FAB people–I made my most incredible, life long friends in the 4:35 rehearsals, and consider myself VERY lucky.
- You’d be able to explore music and poetry that will change your life–each concert has a theme that always seems to be what I need at that time of year.
Yes, there is really no reason not to join LU’s choir program. Of course, I may be a bit biased. This year I’ve been serving as President of Cantala, the group I’ve been a part of for three years now. But in all honesty, there are days when pulling myself off my futon for another rehearsal seems impossible, but by the end of the hour, I’m so glad I did. There is nothing like singing in a community of artists who support each other, especially here at Lawrence.