Nordic Choir Allen Hightower, conductor

Winter Tour 2013 1 Tour Program

WINTER 2013 APPEARANCES I: The Life of Christ Wednesday, January 16, 2013 / 7 p.m. Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church Hosanna to the Son of David Naperville, Illinois Thomas Weelkes (d. 1623) Thursday, January 17, 2013 / 7:30 p.m. Oxford University Press Holy Cross Lutheran Church Fort Wayne, Indiana Hosanna to the Son of David. Friday, January 18, 2013 / 7 p.m. Blessed be the King that cometh in the name of the Lord, Peace Lutheran Church Hosanna, Thou that sittest in the highest heavens. Gahanna, Ohio Hosanna in excelsis Deo. Saturday, January 19, 2013 / 7:30 p.m. St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Verbum caro factum est Ardmore, Pennsylvania Z. Randall Stroope (b. 1953) Sunday, January 20, 2013 / 4 p.m. manuscript Asbury First United Methodist Church Rochester, New York And the word became flesh, Tuesday, January 22, 2013 / 7:30 p.m. dwelt and walked among us, St. Bart’s Episcopal Church We beheld His glory, Alleluia! New York, New York Full of grace, full of truth, Wednesday, January 23, 2013 / 7:30 p.m. Those who walk in darkness and death’s shadow, Lutheran Church of the Reformation have seen a great light shining, Alleluia! Washington, D.C. (without applause) Thursday, January 24, 2013 / 7:30 p.m. Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Hickory, North Carolina II. Christ Is Arisen Friday, January 25, 2013 / 7:30 p.m. (from Three Pre-Reformation Chorale Motets) The Conn Center at Lee University Ludwig Lendel (1914–2002) Cleveland, Tennessee Concordia Publishing House, 98-1572 Saturday, January 26, 2013 / 7 p.m. Central Baptist Church of Bearden Christ is arisen, Knoxville, Tennessee Overcome death’s prison, Sunday, January 27, 2013 / 7:30 p.m. Rejoice, rejoice we all, for Christ the Lord, Westminster Presbyterian Church Christ the Lord is our Trust and Comfort. Greenville, South Carolina Kyrieleis. Monday, January 28, 2013 / 7:30 p.m. Palms Presbyterian Church Had He not ascended, Jacksonville Beach, Florida The world had gone asunder, Christ risen now for us, Wednesday, January 30, 2013 / 7:30 p.m. Praise to Thee, Most Glorious. First Presbyterian Church St. Petersburg, Florida Kyrieleis.

Thursday, January 31, 2013 / 8 p.m. Alleluia, University of Georgia Performing Arts Center Rejoice we all, for Christ, Athens, Georgia for Christ the Lord is our Trust and Comfort, Friday, February 1, 2013 / 7:30 p.m. Kyrieleis. Asbury United Methodist Church Madison, Alabama Saturday, February 2, 2013 / 8 p.m. Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis St. Louis, Missouri Tuesday, February 5, 2013 / 7:30 p.m. , Center for Faith and Life Decorah, Iowa

2 II. Of a Rose, a Lovely Rose Dr. Allen Hightower Allen Hightower is professor of IV: A Spotless Rose music at Luther College, where (from Now Sleeps the Crimson Petal) he serves as conductor of the Paul Mealor (b. 1975) renowned Nordic Choir and Novello & Co., NOV292754 artistic director of Christmas at Luther. As Luther’s director A Spotless Rose is growing, of choral activities, he gives Sprung from a tender root, leadership to a choral program of ancient seers’ foreshowing, that includes four conductors, of Jesse promised fruit; six choirs, and more than 500 singers. Its fairest bud unfolds to light Amid the cold, cold winter, and the dark midnight. Prior to joining the faculty at Luther, Hightower served The Rose which I am singing, as professor of music and director of choral activities at Where of Isaiah said, Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas. During his tenure, the SHSU Chorale performed for the 2007 Is from its sweet root springing National Convention of the American Choral Directors In Mary, purest Maid: Association, the 2010 Southwestern Division of ACDA, The Blessed Babe she bare us and the 2003, 2006, and 2010 conventions of the Texas Through God’s great love and might Music Educators Association. The Blessed Babe she bare us Before joining the faculty at Sam Houston, Allen served Amid the cold, cold winter, and the dark midnight. on the faculty of California State University, Long Beach, A Spotless Rose is growing, conducting the CSULB Chamber Singers. His high school In a cold, cold winter’s night teaching experience includes positions at Klein High Now sleeps the crimson petal. School in Houston, Texas, and at Odessa (Texas) Permian Amen. High School. Under Allen’s direction, the Permian High School Kantorei performed for the 1996 Texas Music (without applause) Educators Association convention. From 2005–10 Allen was music director of the Houston Go, Lovely Rose Masterworks Chorus, Houston’s largest independent Eric Whitacre (b. 1970) symphonic chorus. A lifelong church musician, Hightower has served Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian, and Santa Barbara Music Publishing, Inc., SBMP 432 Congregational churches in Texas and California. He served as the Duesenberg Concert Choir Chair for the Go, lovely rose Lutheran Summer Music Academy and Festival in 2007 Tell her that wastes her time and me, and 2011, and will serve in this role again this year. That now she knows, Allen holds degrees from Sam Houston State University, When I resemble her to thee, Baylor University, the Eastman School of Music, and How sweet and fair she seems to be. UCLA. He was the first-prize winner in the graduate Tell her that’s young, division of the ACDA Conducting Competition in 1997. And shuns to have her graces spied, From 1997–2000 he served as conducting intern with the That hadst thou sprung Los Angeles Master Chorale. Allen has been mentored In deserts where no men abide, by choral conductors Bev Henson, Donald Neuen, Paul Thou must have uncommended died. Salamunovich, Joe Flummerfelt, and . Performing and teaching opportunities during the fall of Small is the worth of beauty from the light retired; 2012 and the spring and summer of 2013 include venues Bid her come forth, Suffer herself to be desired, in Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, And not blush so to be admired. New York, Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Then die, that she the common fate of all things rare Alabama, Missouri, Colorado, California, Texas, and May read in thee; Washington, D.C. These include residencies at the How small a part of time they share, University of Alabama, Colorado State University, That are so wondrous sweet and fair! Pepperdine University, and VanderCook College. Allen is married to soprano Kristin Hightower. They reside in Decorah, Iowa with their daughters, Caroline and Julianne.

3 Tour Program

JACOB III. Make a Joyful Noise to the Lord WATSON ‘12 Waverly, Iowa Music major, Jauchzet dem Hernn alle Welt management minor BMV Anhang 160 J.S. Bach (1685–1750) Postgraduation Carus-Verlag, CV 35.002/05 plans: Attending graduate school for Shout now, shout to the Lord. a degree in music All the earth, shout to the Lord, education Serve ye the Lord with gladness. Come ye, come before his face How did you end With rejoicing, up at Luther?: Hallelujah! “As a senior in high school, I was involved INTERMISSION with a lot of extracurricular activities, most of which revolved around music. Even though I didn’t see myself pursuing a career or major in music, my one requirement for the college I chose was being able IV: In Praise of the Savior to participate in the music program no matter what major I declared. On my first campus visit, I got the chance to sit in on a Nordic Choir rehearsal. Five All Hail the Power of Jesus Name arr. James Mulholland (XXXX-) minutes of listening to the choir rehearse sealed the Colla Voce, 12-50830 deal: I wanted to be a part of that!” The audience is invited to sing on the third verse.

All hail the power of Jesus’ name! HANNAH Let angels prostrate fall; MYOTT ‘13 Bring forth the royal diadem, Minneapolis, Minn. and crown Him Lord of all! Anthropology and German major, Ye chosen seed of Israel’s race, music minor Ye ransomed from the fall; Postgraduation Hail Him who saves you by His grace, plans: Teaching And crown Him Lord of all! abroad in Asia or living in Let every kindred, every tribe, before attending On this terrestrial ball, graduate school To Him all majesty ascribe, And crown Him Lord of all! What do you appreciate most O that with yonder sacred throng about the liberal We at His feet may fall! arts experience? “I’m someone who loves to try We’ll join the everlasting song, many different things, and a liberal arts education And crown Him Lord of all! Amen. allows me to do that. It’s also very flexible—last year I switched my major from music to environmental studies and then to communication studies before finally deciding on anthropology and German. Where else could I do that and still graduate on time?”

4 The Lord is the Everlasting God ANNE Kenneth Jennings (b. 1925) WALSH ‘12 Mark Foster Music, MF2137 Minnetonka, Minn. Music major, Have you not known? education minor Have you not heard? Has it not been told you from the beginning? Postgraduation Have you not understood from the foundations of the earth? plans: Teaching It is God who sits above the circle of the earth, abroad before who stretches out the heavens like a curtain, graduate school for and spreads them like a tent to live in. Vocal Performance To whom then will you compare me, What do you love or who is my equal? says the Holy One. about Jenson- Lift up your eyes and see: Noble Hall of God who brings out their host and numbers them, Music?: calling them all by name, not one is missing. “The thing that I have noticed The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of about Jenson-Noble over the years is this magical the earth, ability to motivate me to practice. Everywhere you who does not faint or grow weary; look in that building there are dedicated musicians whose understanding is unsearchable. coming from a practice room or rehearsal room, and it God gives power to the faint, and strengthens the powerless. makes you think, if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em!” Even youths will faint and be weary, and the young will fall exhausted; but those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, SHANE they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not WILSON ‘13 faint. Bolingbrook, Ill. Have you not heard? Have you not known? Math major, computer science (without applause) minor

Postgraduation Praise to the Lord plans: Attending arr. F. Melius Christiansen (1871–1955) graduate school for Augsburg Fortress, 11-0076 meteorology science Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation! What do you think O my soul, praise Him, for He is thy health and salvation! is unique about the All ye who hear, Now to His temple draw near, Nordic experience? Join me in glad adoration. “Being involved with Nordic and the Praise to the Lord, who doth prosper thy work and defend music department in general has really allowed me to thee; have a foot in two worlds. I’ve met so many people in Surely His goodness and mercy here daily attend thee; music that I never would have known had I gone to a Ponder anew larger school and been confined to the math depart- What the almighty can do ment. It’s never felt like the experiences were totally If with His love He befriend thee! separate—my math professors animatedly chat with me about choir (one of them was actually a math and Praise to the Lord! O let all that is in me adore Him! music double major in college), and I’m recognized in All that hath life and breath, come now with praises before the music department as the guy that’s pretty good Him! at addition. It’s an awesome combination that I hope I Let the Amen can continue after Luther.” Sound from His people again; Gladly for aye we adore Him! Alleluia! 55 Tour Program

V. Words from the Prophets

O Vos Omnes Pablo Casals (1876–1973) Tetra/Continuo music group, TC 128

O ye people that are passing by me and see me, behold and see and consider if there can be any sorrow as mine? O ye people, is it nothing to you?

(without applause)

Dorian Festivals E’en So, Lord Jesus, Quickly Come and Summer Programs Paul Manz (1919–2009) Luther College hosts hundreds of middle and high Concordia Publishing House, 98-1054 school student musicians at seven annual Dorian Festivals and Summer Programs. Participants Peace be to you and grace from Him receive private instruction, ensemble coaching, and Who freed us from our sins, performance opportunities in Luther’s own Noble Who loved us all and shed his blood Recital Hall and Center for Faith and Life. That we might saved be. Sing Holy to The Lord, Almighty God, Dorian Band Festival Who was and is and is to come; 625 participants Sing Holy, Holy, Lord! 3 ensembles, including select Symphonic Band Rejoice in heaven, all ye that dwell therein, Rejoice on earth, ye saints below, Dorian Choral Invitational Festival For Christ is coming soon! More than 450 participants E’en so, Lord Jesus, quickly come, Dorian Keyboard Festival And night shall be no more; More than 150 participants They need no light, nor lamp, no sun, Piano, organ, and harpsichord For Christ will be their All! Dorian Orchestra Festival More than 150 participants VI: The Joy of Singing 3 ensembles, including select Chamber Orchestra

Dorian Junior and Senior High Summer Camps Benedictio More than 600 participants Urmas Sisask (b. 1960) Warner/Chappell Music Finland, HL48000823 Dorian Vocal Festival 1,250 participants May the Almighty God Bless you, Choral and solo opportunities, including select in the name of the Father, the Son, Chamber Choir and the Holy Spirit. For information, contact Amen. Jim Buzza, coordinator Dorian Music Camps, Luther College My Romance 563-387-1389 Rodgers and Hart, arr. Roy Ringwald (1910–1995) [email protected] Shawnee Press, A 1491 http://music.luther.edu My romance doesn’t have to have a moon in the sky, My romance doesn’t need a blue lagoon standing by; No month of May, no twinkling stars,

66 No hide away, no soft guitars. My romance doesn’t need a castle rising in , Nor a dance to a constantly surprising refrain. Wide awake I can make my most fantastic dreams come true; My romance doesn’t need a thing but you.

Joshua Fit the Battle of Jericho arr. Edwin Fissinger (1920–1990) Colla Voce, 55-48166

O Joshua, Joshua fit the battle of Jericho, Luther College Vocal Program And the walls came tumblin’ down. Luther College offers a wide variety of opportunities You may talk about your king of Gideon, for vocal music participation for young aspiring You may talk about your men of Saul. singers. But there’s none like good old Joshua at the battle of Jericho. Right up to the walls of Jericho, Choral Ensembles And he marched with a spear in hand, Aurora, Dr. Sandra Peter, 100-voice first-year women’s “Now go blow those ram horns” Joshua cried, choir “Cause the battle am in my hand!” Cantorei, Linda Martin, women’s choir O then Joshua had the people blow on the trumpets with a Cathedral Choir, Dr. Sandra Peter, 90-voice sophomore mighty sound, touring choir And they blew so awful loud and long. Collegiate Chorale, Dr. Andrew Last, 90-voice upper- That the walls came tumblin’ down over Jericho. class touring choir Nordic Choir, Dr. Allen Hightower, upper-class touring choir VII: Traditions of Nordic Choir Norsemen, Dr. Andrew Last, 90-voice first-year men’s choir Numerous student-led a cappella groups O Lord God Pavel Chesnokov (1877–1944) Voice Study The Boston Music Company, 7723-7 Generous renewable scholarships Vocal coaching O Lord God, hear Thou my prayer, Courses in lyric diction and vocal literature help Thou me, and give ear to my prayer. Fully staged spring opera production Daily do I worship Thy great name and Thy power. Opera workshop Thou alone canst help me. O send me Thy peace and love, 13 applied voice faculty O protect me, my God. Let me never stray, O my Savior. Leave me not, O God of my salvation. For more information about the Luther College vocal I will sing to the Lord as long as I live, program, visit http://music.luther.edu. and praise Thy great name while I have my being. Hear my prayer, help Thou me, and give ear to my prayer. Glory to God.

Optional An Expression of Gratitude, David Schwoebel

7 Nordic Choir

ordic Choir, founded in 1946, enjoys national conventions in Los Angeles, Salt Lake City, and Kansas City, and international acclaim as a premier collegiate and at the Music Educators National Conference in Kansas Nchoral ensemble in the United States. Following the City, Mo. The choir was selected to perform at the 50th anni- 57-year tenure of Weston Noble and Craig Arnold’s five years versary national convention of the ACDA in Oklahoma City, as director of choral activities, Nordic is currently under the March 2009. direction of Dr. Allen Hightower, named director of choral activities at Luther College in 2010. Nordic Choir has made numerous concert tours of , the , Mexico, , and . In 2000 Nordic Choir is Luther’s flagship choir in a choral program and 2003, the choir revisited the college’s founding roots that comprises three upper-class mixed touring choirs, two with tours to and . Nordic Choir was first-year choirs, and a women’s choir. More than 500 singers featured in concert throughout , Spain, and in from these ensembles combine with Symphony Orchestra, May 2009. Most recently, Nordic Choir completed a tour Luther Ringers, and pipe organ for fiveChristmas at Luther of Ireland and England in May 2012. Other notable 2008, “Night of Glory, Dawn of Peace,” and Christmas at appearances for Nordic Choir include a performance of the Luther 2012, “Tidings of Comfort and Joy,” were nationally Mozart Requiem with the Minnesota Orchestra in 2001, broadcast as PBS holiday specials. The 2008 broadcast won a Chichester Psalms with the Des Moines Symphony in 2003, regional Emmy for “Best Special Event Coverage.” and St. John Passion with Orchestra Iowa in 2012.

Nordic Choir has toured extensively throughout the United Nordic Choir has also recorded extensively. Recent titles in- States, performing in countless churches, schools, and concert clude Holy, Radiant Light (2012), Here I Am, Lord (2012), We halls, including Lincoln Center, New York; Kennedy Center, Sing with Joy (2010), In the Beginning (2009), Everlasting God Washington, D.C.; Orchestra Hall, Chicago; Orchestra Hall (2007), The Road Home (2006), and The Culmination of an and the Historic State Theatre, Minneapolis; the Ordway Extraordinary Career, reflecting Weston Noble’s final tour as Music Theatre, St. Paul, Minn.; Walt Disney Concert Hall conductor. Nordic Choir performances are also included on and the Crystal Cathedral, Los Angeles; and the Mormon the CD and DVD of Christmas at Luther 2012 and the 2009, Tabernacle, Salt Lake City. Nordic Choir has also appeared 2010, and 2011 Christmas at Luther CDs. at national American Choral Directors Association (ACDA)

8 NOrdic Choir Personnel

Soprano I music, education minor Ariel Gauslow, Fargo, N.D. Melani Schwartz, Plymouth, Minn. Charlie Parrish-Siggelkow, Orr, Minn. music music, education minor music, education minor Jenna Hoge, Wayzata, Minn. Tom Reimann, Cottage Grove, Minn. Alto II communication studies, English writing chemistry Mary Bissen, Austin, Minn. and management minors Scott Senko, Champlin, Minn. music, education minor Bridget Keenan, Burnsville, Minn. music, education minor Kelsey Brown, Urbandale, Iowa English and music, education minor Bryan Waznik, Menomonie, Wis. music, education minor Val Krych, Champlin, Minn. music, education minor Kelsi Holmes, Monticello, Iowa music, education and management Ben Wegner, St. Paul, Minn. music, education minor minors music, education minor Kari Jensen, Decorah, Iowa Hannah Myott, Minneapolis, Minn. psychology Bass I anthropology and German, music minor Allison Kephart, Decorah, Iowa Kalle Akkerman, Austin, Minn. Christine O’Brien, Western Springs, Ill. music, education minor music music Jessica Lowry, Minneapolis, Minn. Jimmy Deignan, Cedar Rapids, Iowa Rachel Selvig, St. Michael, Minn. music, education minor undecided anthropology and history, music minor Marita May, Cedar Rapids, Iowa Ryan Fugleberg, Chisago City, Minn. Kelsey Tarbert, Oshkosh, Wis. music, management minor music, education minor music, education minor Taylor Numedahl, Owatonna, Minn. David Geist, Burnsville, Minn. Allison Vollinger, Hickory Hills, Ill. social work, Spanish minor music music, education minor Alexandra Nyman, Stillman Valley, Ill. Steven Halloin, Eau Claire, Wis. Soprano II music and psychology music, English writing minor Ellen Amundson, Golden Valley, Minn. Emily Streeper, Falcon Heights, Minn. Ben King Quale, Lake Crystal, Minn. English and Scandinavian studies management, art minor music, education minor Sophia Huang, Fishers, Ind. Sarah Webb, Spirit Lake, Iowa Evan Mitchell, Melcher, Iowa music anthropology and biology, chemistry music Vanessa Libbey, Wauwatosa, Wis. minor Chris Paulson, Medina, Minn. music music Tenor I Mary Lieberman, Katy, Texas Tyler Reece, Glenwood Springs, Colo. Bradley Beale, Warrenville, Ill. music, education minor music music, education minor Erin Persick, Robins, Iowa Alex Sievers, Hiawatha, Iowa Adam Bradley, Brookings, S.D. music accounting, management minor music, management minor Lillianna Petsch-Horvath, Elkhorn, Wis. Tyler Simpson, Chatfield, Minn. Patrick Fagan, Cedar Rapids, Iowa sociology, Africana studies minor history and music music, education minor Marissa Satern, Hiawatha, Iowa William Haugen, White Bear Township, Bass II biology, music minor Minn. David Baxter, Algona, Iowa Sadie Stoiber, Muskego, Wis. political science, Spanish minor music, education minor music, social welfare minor Sam Jones, Des Moines, Iowa Colin Berry, Iowa City, Iowa Alto I music, English writing minor music, education minor Karissa Crouse, North Branch, Minn. Trevor Maloney, Cambridge, Minn. Dylan Carlson, Wayzata, Minn. English, education minor music, history minor music and theatre/dance Emily Davis, Brookfield, Wis. James Odegaard, Hiawatha, Iowa Thomas Gerber, Austin, Minn. history and music, education minor music music, education minor Hannah Delzer, Janesville, Wis. Nathan Wiley, Bondurant, Iowa Daniel Gibson, Urbandale, Iowa elementary education and music music biology and chemistry Holly Fusco, Indianola, Iowa Lukas Hampton, Montevideo, Minn. Tenor II music and theatre/dance, education music, education minor Alec Carlson, Red Oak, Iowa minor music, management minor Dietrich Jessen, Lake Charles, La. Andrea Keuper, Brookfield, Wis. management, French minor Benjamin Cramer, Brooklyn Center, Minn. music, education minor music Tim Komatsu, Northfield, Minn. Amelia Kundel, Cedar Rapids, Iowa political science and theatre/dance David Duba, Northfield, Minn. biology, music minor computer science, psychology minor Anders Nilsen, Gahanna, Ohio Brittney Leemon, McFarland, Wis. psychology, music minor Tyler Hagy, Muscatine, Iowa music, management minor Stephen Uhl, Bensenville, Ill. music and theatre/dance, education Kelley Lokensgard, Eagan, Minn. music minor music Shane Wilson, Owatonna, Minn. Cole Melby, Cedar Falls, Iowa Katherine Ollman, Mason City, Iowa mathematics anthropology, religion minor

9 In Pursuit of Excellence

ow in his third year of I think it means that we sing in as many conducting Nordic Choir, churches as concert halls. We sing in NAllen Hightower is settling in. churches, and I would want church His Southern roots continue to peek musicians around the country to be able through—for instance, when calls to see the Nordic Choir as a model for J. S. Bach the granddaddy of Lutheran what beautifully rendered sacred music church music—but he has a rapport can sound like.” with the students of Luther College While Nordic Choir may offer a model that makes him very much at home in of the Lutheran choral tradition, his role as the fourth conductor of the the group is anything but typical. In Nordic Choir. comparison with other choral programs, “I think what has continued to nurture Hightower says, my sense of place has been the deepening of relationships,” he reflects. “The amount and the His quickness to adopt Nordic Choir traditions—and to impart a few of his intensity of nonmajors own—certainly speeds up the process. participating in music at Prior to joining Luther as director Luther is remarkable. of choral activities, conductor of Nordic Choir, and professor of music, We have hundreds and hundreds of Hightower had been director of people at Luther who are studying choral studies at Sam Houston State, biology and math and education who Sharing that vulnerability is a tradition his alma mater. A native Texan, he want to participate in music, and in the Nordic Choir, particularly was pleased by Luther’s interest. “To I think somehow it brings a more through devotionals prior to each tour ultimately entrust their choral tradition balanced and less self-centered focus performance. “For some, these are very to someone outside of the Lutheran to the experience. Because they really much a sharing of their spiritual walk, Norwegian tradition was maybe a big are there because of the love it, not and some are more comfortable sharing step for Luther,” he says. because of the necessity of it—it’s other aspects of their journey,” he says. not as though they’re there to fulfill “There are always lots of tears and Hightower doesn’t take this lightly. “I a requirement. They’re there to then we have to sort of sniff up and said to the students not too long ago, sing because they realize it enriches go perform, but it creates this lovely their lives in a tremendous way. And dynamic and vulnerability on the part of ‘We’re stewards of the therefore the output, the outpouring, the seniors, as well as this deep bond— the vulnerability—all of those things we’re in this together.” Lutheran choral tradition— that they bring to the experience are very enriching.” Hightower continues, “I have found what does that mean?’ those to be very ennobling and very meaningful as students have become transparent and shared their heart and become more vulnerable. And therefore the whole act of music making is one of trust: they trust me and I trust them and they trust each other. And it is through this trust that you can take risks and really go some place musically— transcendentally, if you will.” In addition to learning Nordic traditions, Hightower has imparted one of his own. “I’ve begun kind of a new tradition of a piece called An Expression of Gratitude, which is part of our encore. The text is from the first chapter of Philippians: ‘I thank my God in all my remembrance of you with every prayer of joy. . . .

10 I thank my God for you.’ And the wonderful thing about this Recent Releases Available in the lobby text is that for those people who may not be in a place where they have a relationship with God, there is still a component Holy, Radiant Light of having journeyed with these people in the choir, and so is the second album there’s this relationship and they are grateful to these people. of Allen Hightower This will be the second year we’ve done it. These traditions conducting the of having a piece or two that we keep with us as we tour also Nordic Choir of starts to mean something to our audience and to our alums Luther College. This who’ve sung them.” disc features great songs from the Hightower is eager to recognize these kinds of connections, 2012 Winter Tour of between the choir and the audience and among the singers Colorado and the themselves, which are intrinsic to Nordic. Along these lines, Luther College Nordic Choir Allen Hightower, conductor Midwest. another Nordic tradition that has impressed Hightower is the spontaneous holding of hands. “I’ve never encountered The Christmas at Luther 2012: Tidings of Comfort it before. Once the music’s memorized, the singers begin of and Joy CD and DVD feature choral and orchestral their own volition to start holding the hand of the person pieces performed at the Christmas at Luther concerts next to them. Big ol’ burly boys, you know? It’s interesting: in December and broadcast nationwide on PBS. Both you walk into any academic building these days and you feature Nordic Choir performing “A Spotless Rose” by find more outlets for hand sanitizer than you do pencil Paul Mealor. sharpeners. Really, we’re in that age, aren’t we? And yet making this connection is a high priority for these students. “For all the horror that is perpetrated on our society, all the ugly, all the disappointment in youth, imagine coming to a church and hearing a concert of kids—19, 20, 21 years old— wearing choir robes, holding hands, and singing beautifully about meaningful, eternal things. I think even beyond the context of worshipping God, it is an encouragement to people to see young people doing something of beauty and of worth and, in a sense, giving. It gives people hope for our future as a nation and a culture. It’s powerful.” 2012 2012

Celebrate 150 Years with Luther College, recorded live in April 2011, includes Haydn’s Lord Nelson Mass and the world premiere of Luther Mass by Stephen Paulus.

You may also order these and other Luther recordings online at www.lutherbookshop.com or by calling the Luther Book Shop at 1-888-521-5039.

11 Music Faculty

GREGORY PETERSON ’83. D.M.A., LYNNE HART. M.F.A., University of Iowa. MICHAEL O’BRIEN. Ph.D., University of University of Iowa. Department head, Organ, Saxophone. Texas, Austin. ACM-Mellon Post-Doctoral Luther Ringers, College Organist. CAROL HESTER. D.M., Florida State Fellowship in Ethnomusicology. EDWIN ANDERECK. D.M.A., University of University. Flute, flute methods. JESSICA PAUL. D.M.A., University of Cincinnati, College-Conservatory of Music. ALLEN HIGHTOWER. D.M.A., University Illinois. Vocal coach, collaborative arts. Head of voice and opera, vocal literature. of California. Director of Choral Activities, SANDRA PETER. D.M.A., University of HEATHER ARMSTRONG. D.M.A., Nordic Choir, conducting, choral methods. Iowa. Aurora, Cathedral Choir, conducting. Eastman School of Music. Oboe, theory, KRISTIN HIGHTOWER. D.M.A., University BETH RAY WESTLUND ’89. D.M.A., double reeds methods. of California. Voice. University of Texas at Austin. Associate ERIC ASHCRAFT. M.M., University of XIAO HU. D.M.A., State University of New Department head, voice, diction. Cincinnati, College-Conservatory of Music. York-Stony Brook. Piano, class piano. KATHRYN REED. M.A., University Voice, opera. DU HUANG. D.M.A., State University of of Michigan. Ear training, harpsichord, DANIEL BALDWIN. D.M.A., University New York-Stony Brook. Piano, class piano. Collegium Musicum. of Texas at Austin. Symphony Orchestra, AMBER RIGGENBACH. M.A., University Chamber Orchestra, conducting. HELEN JAMES. D.M.A., University of Oregon. Bassoon. of Iowa. Piano. ANN BENJAMIN. M.M., Indiana University. BRAD SCHULTZ ’07. M.M., Emory Harp. BROOKE JOYCE. Ph.D., Princeton University. Theory, composition, music University. Organ, ear training. REBECCA BOEHM SHAFFER. D.M.A., history, electronic music. MICHAEL SMITH. D.M.A., University of University of Northern Colorado. Horn, brass Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. Low brass, brass methods, ear training. DAVID JUDISCH. D.M.A., University of Iowa. Voice, vocal methods, Dorian Music ensembles, brass methods. TOM BOURCIER. M.M., Western Michigan Camp director, opera. Professor emeritus STEVE SMITH ’95. M.M., University of University. Jazz Band, improvisation, Theatre/ North Texas. Composition, electronic music. Dance composition. KAREN KANAKIS. D.M.A., University of North Texas. Voice, opera. GRAHAM STEEDS. M.M., Florida State JASON BRITTON. Ph.D., University of University, D.M.A., University of Minnesota. Oregon. Theory, ear training. MIKO KOMINAMI. M.M., The Juilliard School. Piano, theory. Trumpet. MARGARET BRITTON ’10. M.M., JOHN F. STRAUSS. D.M.A., University of University of Texas at Austin. Theory, ear WILLIAM KUHLMAN. M.M., Syracuse Texas at Austin. Piano. training. University. Professor emeritus. VIRGINIA STRAUSS. D.M.A., University of MICHAEL CHESHER. D.M., Indiana ERIC KUTZ. D.M.A., The Juilliard School. Texas at Austin. Violin, advanced ear training, University. Clarinet, saxophone, woodwind Cello, string methods. counterpoint. methods. JACOB LASSETTER. D.M.A., University of JONATHON STRUVE ’02. M.M., BRENT DODSON. D.M.A., University of Cincinnati, College-Conservatory of Music. Northwestern University; A.B.D., University Southern California. Trumpet, Varsity Band, Voice, opera. of Iowa. Voice. brass methods. ANDREW LAST ’97. D.M.A., University RICHARD TIRK. D.M.A., Michigan State JOAN deALBUQUERQUE. D.M.A., of Nebraska-Lincoln. Collegiate Chorale, University. Trumpet, brass methods. University of North Texas. Concert Band, Norsemen, voice, conducting Wind and Percussion Ensemble, conducting. HANNAH LEFFLER. M.M., University of KYLIE TOOMER ’08. M.M., University of North Texas. Voice. AMY ENGELSDORFER. Ph.D., Indiana Northern Iowa. Flute. University. Theory, ear training. PETER LINGEN. Guitar, lute, classical guitar. TARN TRAVERS. M.M., Cleveland Institute of Music. Violin, string methods. ROLF ERDAHL. D.M.A., Peabody LINDA MARTIN. M.A., University of Conservatory. Double bass, string methods. St. Thomas. Theory, ear training, Cantorei, ANDREW WANNIGMAN ’07. M.M., New England Conservatory. Voice. BILL FORDICE ’82. M.A., Northern Illinois general music education. University, A.B.D., Boston University. Music SPENCER MARTIN. D.M.A., University of RACHEL WARE ’06. D.M.A., University of education. Minnesota. Viola, conducting, Philharmonia. Minnesota. Voice, music history. RONALD FOX. D.M., Indiana University. MAURICE MONHARDT. Ph.D., University MARJORIE WHARTON ’66. M.A., (French) Professor Emeritus. of Iowa. Professor emeritus. Tulane University; D.M.A., University of Iowa. Piano, class piano. MICHAEL GEARY. M.A., University of GARY MOSS. D.M.A., University of Iowa. Percussion, Percussion Ensemble, Michigan. Voice, ear training. ANDREW WHITFIELD. D.M.A., Louisiana percussion methods. State University. Voice, opera. WESTON NOBLE ’43. M.M., University of JAMES GRIESHEIMER. Ph.D., Indiana Michigan. Professor emeritus. SUSAN WILLIAMS. M.M., Indiana University. Music history. University. Voice, class voice. FREDERICK NYLINE. M.A., University of JUAN TONY GUZMÁN ’90. Ph.D., Minnesota. Professor emeritus. BENJAMIN YATES ’08. M.M., University of Florida State University. Music education, Illinois. Low brass, brass ensemble. ethnomusicology, Jazz Orchestra.

12 Music At Luther

artin Luther—our namesake—believed music to be Music/Arts Facilities “one of the most magnificent and delightful presents MGod has given us.” For over 130 years, Luther students have been sharing this marvelous gift with audiences across the country and around the globe.

Music is much more than a gift, though. It’s an integral part of the community of faith and the community of learning on campus. The arts are fundamental to the liberal arts experience at Luther; they help to define what it means to be human. Here creative scholarship, personal growth, worship, and social relations merge to create an understanding of the wholeness of life.

The vibrancy of Luther’s music program is rooted in a balance between the academic rigor of our acclaimed music major and Jenson-Noble Hall of Music 325-seat recital hall the numerous opportunities for study and performance by students from all disciplines “Participating across campus. in Nordic Choir The Luther campus is alive with the sounds of six choirs, helps our students three bands, three orchestras, grow not only as two jazz bands, and nearly 1,000 student musicians. musicians, but also Our students participate as people.” in large ensembles, faculty- coached chamber groups, —Rick Torgerson, President private lessons, and master classes. More than 300 music majors study music theory/ ear training, history, education, composition, church music, and performance. It all adds up to one of the largest collegiate music programs in the world!

For more information about Luther’s music program, visit the Luther College music website, http://music.luther.edu.

Luther College Founded in 1861 by Norwegian immigrants, Luther College Center for Faith and Life 1,600-seat main hall, 200-seat recital hall provides its 2,500 students with a classic liberal arts education.

Luther offers more than 60 majors and preprofessional and .certifcate programs leading to the bachelor of arts degree The college’s strong academic program includes internships, professional semesters, and extensive study-abroad opportu- nities. Dedicated and talented faculty help Luther students develop solid research, writing, and critical-thinking skills, while the close-knit community imbues its members with a service ethic.

The Phi Beta Kappa college is bolstered by its Lutheran foundation, celebrated for its vibrant music and arts tradi- tion, and enriched by its strong athletic program. Center for the Arts 225-seat black-box theatre

13 Encouraging Support

work as soon purchasing baby grand pianos in the as it’s re- student all-Steinway practice room ceived, in the corridor. The New York Steinway grand areas where piano from the Noble Recital Hall is it is needed also being completely rebuilt, thanks most. This to significant donor underwriting from unrestricted Weston Noble and his family. In the giving pro- coming three years, the college will be vides op- replacing or rebuilding two more of portunities our teaching Steinway grand pianos for increased ($40,000 each); purchasing five new student baby grands for student practice studios scholarships, ($20,000 each); replacing six upright improved pianos ($7,000 each), and purchasing campus life, 12 new adjustable benches ($700 each). updated tech- Overall this investment in Luther pia- nology, and nos totals more than $400,000, and ap- n December 31, 2012, Lu- strengthened academic and cocurricular proximately $235,000 is still needed to ther College celebrated the programs. With over $1.6 million raised bring our piano fleet to its best teaching Osuccessful completion of The each year, the Annual Fund supports and practice condition. Sesquicentennial Fund, the five-year, every student, professor, and staff mem- $50-million funding initiative surround- ber and has an immediate and lasting As with all fund development efforts, ing the college’s 150th anniversary. The impact on the Luther community. the success of Luther College depends Sesquicentennial Fund exceeded its goal on the support of the many who with over $57 million in outright and In addition to the need for ongoing believe in Luther’s mission. We invite deferred gifts from more than 14,700 support of scholarship endowment and your gifts and pledges toward student donors. Thanks to all who generously the Annual Fund, and especially for scholarships, the Luther College Annual invested in the mission and students those who have a special fondness for Fund, the piano project, or any other of Luther College! A series of spe- Luther’s music programs, the college is college project or program. As always, cial events to celebrate the successful also in the midst of a project to replace your participation is what matters completion of The Sesquicentennial and refurbish pianos in the Jenson most, and gifts of all sizes are gratefully Fund and honor the Torgerson presiden- Noble Hall of Music. Over the years, received. Contributions may be made cy will be held throughout the country Luther’s music department has done a through current gifts, planned gifts, or this spring. Go to www.luther.edu/giving/ masterful job of maintaining a fleet of combinations of current and planned recognition/events for a complete listing. more than 100 pianos. On average, our gifts. For further information about giv- 40 grand pianos and 59 uprights are ag- ing opportunities in support of Luther Fully two-thirds ($33 million) of The ing gracefully, but some instruments are College, please contact the Develop- Sesquicentennial Fund was devoted to now requiring refurbishment. Such re- ment Office at (800) 225-8664 or visit endowment, and endowed scholarship building and refurbishment are typical the http://giving.luther.edu website. support (with a goal of $12.5 million) in the life of a was the largest single component of the performance funding initiative. We are pleased to and practice announce that more than $21.9 million piano, but also was committed through outright and exception- deferred giving to scholarship endow- ally costly. ment for students. Student scholarships Last year, will remain at the forefront of Luther’s Luther Col- on-going fundraising efforts, along with lege invested unrestricted support for the Annual approximately Fund. $135,000 in rebuilding Every year, nearly 9,000 alumni, par- and refurbish- ents, and friends support the Luther ing its main College Annual Fund with gifts ranging stage concert from $5 to $50,000. Each gift goes to Steinway and

14 Luther College

ince 1861, Luther College has Luther has a strong tradition of en- placed its faith in a classic resi- gaged and experiential learning, most Sdential, liberal arts education. notably in our study-abroad programs. We believe that providing a rigorous More than 70 percent of Luther academic program in the context of students will study abroad before a faith tradition prepares students for graduating, placing us among the top more than successful careers. Luther 10 baccalaureate colleges nationally graduates have a sense of a larger in the number of students studying purpose—a sense that the “good life” abroad each year. Many students travel is one where they use their talents and with Luther faculty during the college’s knowledge in service to others. Our January Term, a month-long intensive president, Richard Torgerson, puts it course of study with programs on five this way: “It’s not just about prestige continents. and success. It’s about integrity, fulfill- ment, and knowing that what we do We believe music is central to a liberal is going to make the world a better arts education. As one of our conduc- place.” tors puts it, “Musical expression— artistic expression—answers some of Luther’s liberal arts curriculum begins our most fundamental needs as human with 180 full-time faculty who come campus, they make a life here, along beings: the need to be creative, the from the strongest graduate programs with students and colleagues. This cre- need for self-fulfillment, and the need in the United States and around the ates a strong sense of community and for self-expression, beauty, and mean- world. They reflect the college’s ideals shared purpose on the Luther campus. ingful existence.” as a Phi Beta Kappa institution—excel- lence every day in the liberal arts. With The sense of community at Luther is In the end a Luther education is about expertise ranging from collaborative fil- enhanced by the college’s picturesque transformation. We put our faith in a tering (in computer science) to a fresh location. Nestled in the bluff country strong liberal arts education, rich cocur- interpretation of St. Patrick from Latin of northeast Iowa, Luther is a strong ricular programs, and the beauty found (in classics) to biodegradable polyesters and vibrant residential community in place and community. Students are (in chemistry), our faculty feel called purposely set apart. Our 1,000-acre transformed by their four-year journey to be at a place where the attention is campus includes frontage on the Upper at Luther and leave here ready to make on undergraduates. The college’s 12:1 Iowa River, recreation trails, outdoor their mark in the world. student-faculty ratio makes it possible research sites, and well-designed facili- for professors to know their students ties dedicated to teaching and learning. To learn more about us, visit www. well and become intellectual mentors A new $20 million science laboratories luther.edu or call 1-800-4 LUTHER. and guides. And because nearly all center has expanded opportunities for faculty live within five miles of collaborative research and learning.

15 Experience Luther

To arrange a campus visit, call the Admissions Office at 800-458-8437.

[email protected] www.luther.edu

Luther College 700 College Drive Decorah, Iowa 52101