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Westminster College to Host Concerts in Preparation for International Tour

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Posted on Monday, March 14, 2016

The Westminster College Concert Choir is preparing for an international tour throughout Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic, and will present upcoming preview concerts on March 20 at 3 p.m. at Christ Episcopal Church in Warren, Ohio and April 10 at 3 p.m. at Clen-Moore Presbyterian Church in New Castle. The preview concerts are free and open to the public.

As part of a 10-day travel course, 40 students will sing in cathedrals in Munich, Salzburg, Vienna and Prague, clinic with choirs along the way, and visit major historical landmarks.

“Having lived in Germany and Austria for a time, I am excited to relate my experiences to them,” said Dr. Samuel Barbara, assistant professor of music and director of choral activities. “I still remember the first time I sang in a massive Gothic Cathedral in Europe and I look forward to sharing similar formative experiences with my students.”

The tour will support Barbara’s educational goals by providing a global perspective and potentially opening the door to future international travel.

“International travel is such an important part of gaining an open-minded perspective,” said Barbara. “This will be the first time abroad for many of the students and I believe trips like this have the power to energize and excite the students, broadening their perspective and exposing them to some of the world’s most artistically rich cities.”

The choir is preparing for their international vocal performances through many hours of rehearsal along with a travel course that meets weekly. As a part of this course, students learn about historical and cultural issues, undertake language studies and learn the logistics of international travel.

“The more we can get out there and perform, the stronger we will be as an ensemble,” said Barbara. “It is my hope that through these concerts, we not only build unity as an ensemble, but raise awareness about our exciting program in neighboring communities.”

For more information about the upcoming concerts, or to learn more about the choirs at Westminster, contact Barbara at barbarsw@westminster.edu or (724) 946-7278.