Southeastern chorists offer two concerts in late April

April 17, 2025

Two upcoming concerts will highlight the vocal talents of Southeastern Oklahoma State University in collaboration with local schools and area musicians.

On Thursday, April 24, at 7:30 p.m., the Southeastern Chorale will offer a joint concert with the Sherman (Texas) High School A Cappella Choir. Held in the beautiful sanctuary of St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Sherman, the performance will include a variety of music from all historical eras and musical styles.

Sacred favorites such as The Lord Bless You and Keep You by Peter Lutkin and If Ye Love Me by Thomas Tallis will be presented along with modern arrangements like Wide Open Spaces and Blackbird. The choirs will conclude the concert with a combined benediction for the audience entitled Do Not Be Afraid by Phillip Stopford.

“It’s always a great experience to collaborate on a joint concert with some of our area’s finest student musicians,” said Dr. Abby Musgrove, Director of Choral Activities at Southeastern. “Sherman High School has a reputation for excellence in the performing arts, and many SHS students continue their musical education at Southeastern to become performers and teachers. We are happy to once again join our voices in song.”

Soon after, on Monday, April 28, at 7:30 p.m., the combined choirs of Southeastern will present their concert entitled About Time: Songs of Patience, Longing, and Faith, held at First Baptist Church in Durant. For this performance, both the Southeastern Chorale and the SE Choral Union will perform music in various styles on the theme of “time.”

“From the Renaissance to today, there is something for everyone on this concert,” said Musgrove. “Music, with its various speeds, tempos, and rhythms, is a perfect medium to explore the idea of time. Whether it be passing quickly or slowly, or whether we wish for more of less of it.”

Selections include the well-known Joy in the Morning by Natalie Sleeth and the beloved The Eyes of All Wait Upon Thee by Jean Berger. Lesser-known offerings include Mira Has Finished With Waiting based on a 15th century Sanskrit poem, and the Chinese folksong Ao Bao Xiang Hui during which the choir will be accompanied by ehru, a traditional Chinese string instrument. The concert will also include SE students conductors in their podium debuts.

Both concerts are free and open to the public.