The Nebraska Wesleyan University Choir and Jazz Choir will culminate their 2023-24 season with a concert tour inspired by civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The performance, "Lead Us On to the Light", is influenced by a phrase from King's favorite hymn. NWU's Conductor of Choirs Tom Trenney says his arrangement of "We Shall Overcome" and U2's haunting "MLK" will be highlights of the program.
"Though music may not have the power to cure us, we believe that singing from the heart can bring healing," he says. "We experience this often in our choir. There are days when we may not be feeling joy, but we get to sing a song together that reminds us what joy feels like, and that can make a big difference in opening us to a glimpse of light to carry into the day. We hope that our tour program will bring an extra measure of hope to our students and to all those who may hear us along the way."
The home performance will take place on Saturday, May 11 at 7:30 p.m. at First-Plymouth Church in Lincoln, featuring the chamber choir from Lincoln Southwest High School. It caps off a five-day tour that begins in Salina, Kan. on Sunday, May 5. Other stops include Kirkwood, Mo. on Monday, Memphis, Tenn. on Tuesday, Franklin, Tenn. on Thursday and Manchester, Mo. on Friday.
The program will also feature music by Rosephanye Powell, Moses Hogan, Maurice Duruflé, Tomás de Torrejón y Velasco, and Dolly Parton. Nationally celebrated concert pianist, organist, and composer Anne Wilson will serve as accompanist for the tour performances.
A live stream will be available.