The University Singers travelled to Jackson, Tennessee on Saturday to sing with the Jackson Symphony and special guest Anthony Kearns.
The University Singers is the open choir of UTM, featuring many special performers ranging in age from freshman all the way up to retired UTM faculty. The group meets three days a week for an hour to rehearse under the direction of Dr. Mark Simmons.
Every few years, the ensemble is invited to perform with either the Jackson or Paducah Symphony. This is the choir’s fourth such appearance.
“An Evening with Anthony Kearns,” was a night that choir members and audience members are not soon to forget. Anthony Kearns, a member of The Irish Tenors, is considered “Ireland’s Foremost Tenor.” The program for the evening was entitled, “A Night for Romance,” with selections ranging from “Ave Maria,” to “When Irish Eyes Are Smiling.” Kearns received a standing ovation as adults and children alike cheered with joy. One small child enjoyed the program so much that she could be heard singing along from the crowd.
The University Singers accompanied Kearns on “Nearer My God to Thee,” “Ave Maria,” “God Bless America” and the two encores, “Time to Say Goodbye” and “When Irish Eyes Are Smiling.” Dr. Simmons took the podium to conduct the choir only pieces, “Homeward Bound,” “Anvil Chorus” and a crowd inclusive rendition of “Battle Hymn of the Republic.” The entire room filled with voices as everyone joined together for the last chorus, and the energy in the room was apparent.
These dedicated vocalists travelled to Jackson on Thursday night and twice on Friday to rehearse with the orchestra, directed by Peter Shannon. Shannon studied both in Ireland and Germany, and has had the opportunity to conduct in many countries across Europe, including Norway, Italy, Germany and Denmark, before coming to the United States.
After the performance, students travelled by bus back to Martin, but their voices are sure to resonate within the hearts of attendees at the concert. The University Singers work hard to develop their musical skills, and it proves to be worth it after opportunities such as these.
