Allegheny College Choir Tours In Scandinavia
Last May, alumni (from 1972 to 2022) and students traveled across three European countries to share their talents under the direction of James Niblock ’97, Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities. College Organist Kevin Dill accompanied the performances on piano and organ.
The current College Choir was joined by 20 alumni, with the larger ensemble performing as The Allegheny Singers, a name that pays homage to the program’s historic touring roots, which date back to the 1930s. The choirs explored Scandinavia’s unique culture and performed in everyday and historic venues.
“Getting to sing with our alumni, some from 40 years ago, gave me the opportunity to hear their stories and what their Allegheny education meant to them,” remarks NealeyClare Wheat ’25, a psychology major. “We worked and dedicated ourselves to perfecting our music and art, so finally getting to present that to audiences across the globe, and see their reactions, meant that everything we prepared for was worth it.”
The singers stopped at the following locations between May 13 and 23:
- Copenhagen, Denmark
- Hillerod, Denmark
- Oslo, Norway
- Karlstad, Sweden
- Stockholm, Sweden
- Uppsala, Sweden
Numerous students received financial support from alumni to participate in the life-changing trip. Many had never traveled abroad, and for several, this marked their first air travel experience.
“This tour reminded me of the impact an experience abroad can have on a student. I was lucky enough to participate in a choral music tour 20 years ago, and that experience shaped the way I view the world. It was a privilege to witness another generation of students discovering this for themselves,” says Kurt Hatcher ’07, choir member and sustainability coordinator for Allegheny College. “Our first venue, the Church of Our Savior in Copenhagen, is older than the United States, and has a 17th century organ. I think we all felt honored and humbled in those moments.”
Niblock is especially proud of these singers’ work on Allegheny’s first intergenerational tour.
“The eclectic concert program includes wonderful and diverse music, and the quality of performance speaks to the dedication of our students and graduates,”says Niblock.
Still, the pinnacle achievement for Niblock comes in bringing people together, “Some of the singers had toured previously and knew it would be challenging and rewarding. For me, the highlights are in seeing multiple generations of Alleghenians bonding over past and present experiences, and knowing that those ties will further enrich their lives – the Allegheny experience continues.”
Interested in joining the flagship vocal ensemble? Click here to learn more about Allegheny College’s choirs!