Join Shocker Choir and WU Choir, under the direction of Dr. Tom Wine, in a display of individual expression at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 10 in Wiedemann Hall. The WU Choir has prepared music written using a first-person voice. The message ranges from personal reflection (“Bonny Wood Green”) and expressions of love (“Unforgettable”), to sense of community (“One Voice”) and individual empowerment (“Orion”). The concert closes with “I’ll Be on My Way,” a celebration of liberation with unrestrained joy.

Shocker Choir, which recently premiered a new arrangement of the WSU Alma Mater for the fall academic convocation, is performing music all written in the last five years. Some of the inspirational material is traditional, but the approach is uniquely 21st century. “Esxultate! Jubilate!” uses a traditional Latin text, but the corresponding rhythmic accompaniment and use of mixed meter is decidedly contemporary. “Music in the Air” has a melody based on a traditional African American Spiritual, but uses a flowing piano accompaniment and vocal virtuosity to create a dramatic new sound. The song “Glory” was recorded by John Legend and Common and this rendition includes both the solo line and a modern rap.

Joining the WSU choirs is a guest choir from Topeka. Saint Mary’s Academy “Polymnia” Treble Choir has been accepted by blind audition to perform next spring for the Kansas Music Educators Association conference. They have a long tradition of choral excellence. Their conductor, Krista Childs, has selected music from a variety of styles to showcase the talents of the ensemble.

Ticket prices:

  • Adults: $12
  • Seniors/Military: $10
  • Faculty/staff: $10
  • Children/students: $6 (with school ID for students)

And WSU students can attend at no additional charge with a Shocker ID.

This is a picture of faculty member, Dr. Cristina Castaldi, guest artise for the Shocker Choir concert

Shocker Choir and WU Choir present songs of joy, love, sorrow, and fun at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 13 in Wiedemann Hall.

The men of Shocker Choir share some South American dance music and the heart-breaking ballad “Bring Him Home” from “Les Miserables.” WSU faculty members Dr. Jeb Wallace (Horn) and Dr. Cristina Castaldi (Soprano) are joining them for a love song. Closing their program is the traditional performance of the “WSU Fight Songs.”

WU choir has prepared an eclectic mix of Canadian folk music and a Macedonian song passed down by oral tradition. Included in the set is “Taylor, the Latte Boy”  popularized by Broadway star Kristin Chenowith.

Tickets are $12 with discounts available and free with a WSU Student ID.