Vesper Choir to begin spring tour
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff will begin the 2024 spring tour of its internationally acclaimed Vesper Choir on March 17, performing in Tennessee, North Carolina and the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area.
Directed by Jerron A. Liddell, the choir tour starts March 17 in Nashville, Tenn., with appearances at Mount Zion Baptist Church’s Antioch and Old Hickory campuses, followed by a concert at the National Museum of African American Music at 4:30 p.m.
On March 20, the choir will attend St. Paul Baptist Church in Charlotte, N.C., for a worship service and revival at 7 p.m.
On March 23, the UAPB Vesper Choir will visit the UAPB Washington, D.C., Metro Area Alumni Chapter for a Founders Day Brunch at 10 a.m. at the Renditions Golf Course in Davidsonville, Md.
The tour concludes March 24 with a Palm Sunday service at Mount Zion Baptist Church in Arlington, Va.
“The UAPB Vesper Choir, a distinguished traditional college choir, boasts a repertoire that spans diverse stylistic periods, welcoming experienced singers from various backgrounds,” according to the release. “Known for their exceptional performances, the choir covers classical choral literature, spirituals, contemporary choral pieces, choral jazz and gospel selections. Participation is not limited to music majors and minors; auditions, interviews and recommendation letters ensure a high caliber of talent.”
Founded in the 1940s by professor Ariel Lovelace, the choir was conducted for more than 40 years by professor Shelton J. McGee.
The choir has achieved international recognition, performing in Italy and Spain and garnering praise on radio and television.
The 35-40 member select ensemble continues its rich choral tradition, showcasing the talents of students with diverse musical backgrounds, according to the release.
The Music Department at UAPB offers a range of performance ensembles, including the Vesper Choir, Marching Band, Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, Woodwind Ensemble, Brass Ensemble and Wind Symphony. Membership is open to all students through auditions.
For details, contact Liddell, director of the UAPB Vesper Choir, at liddellj@uapb.edu.