Concordia hosts 2019 annual Musical Arts Day

Concordia University, Nebraska, hosted high school honor choir and band students for Musical Arts Day Nov. 8.

Each year, the best vocal and instrumental high school musicians from around the country audition for the opportunity to work with Concordia's music department students and faculty in clinics and rehearsals during the university's Musical Arts Day. Singers and instrumentalists receive a full day of high energy, focused rehearsing and acclaimed performances.

This year, 229 students were selected to participate, including 75 band members and 154 choral singers, both from Nebraska and across the country.Participants worked closely with Concordia music faculty and students throughout the day, culminating with a concert that featured performances by the high school honor choir and band and selected soloists and members of Concordia's University A Cappella Choir and University Symphonic Band.  

The honor choir was directed by Dr. Kurt von Kampen, professor of music and music department chair, who founded the event in 1999. Dr. Andrew Schultz, assistant professor of music, directed the honor band.

“Through the years, thousands of high school students have experienced the joy of making music—and performing to the glory of God—with talented conductors and college musicians,” said von Kampen.