VERMILLION, S.D. – The nationally-recognized University of South Dakota Chamber Singers and their conductor, David Holdhusen, will participate in a week long concert tour during the university’s spring break from March 7-14. The ensemble will perform 7 p.m. in Scottsbluff on Monday, March 10.

Calvary Lutheran Church, 17 E. 27th St. All are welcome to attend the concert.

“Our students will have an opportunity to perform in multiple venues with different acoustics,” Holdhusen, professor of music and Director of Choral Activities at USD, said. “Because we are on the road for the entire week, the students have the opportunity to work like professional performers, which is an important experience for our young musicians, and something they will really enjoy. They also get to live with this music and form deep connections to each piece they sing.”

Admission is free to all of the Chamber Singers’ performances; however, a freewill offering will be collected at each venue.

Tour stops include Kearney, Omaha, Denver, Colo., Rapid City and Sioux Falls. Copies of the singers’ newest CD “Out of the Ashes” will be on sale at all tour locations and can be found wherever music is streamed.

This year’s musical program, “Hear My Voice” includes classical and contemporary musical selections spanning a variety of languages and cultures. The choir will perform traditional choral music, folk songs and spirituals all geared to tells the audience the story of the search for one’s own unique voice among many trials, and in a landscape of much vociferation. Some of the songs featured in the program include “Beati quorum via” by Charles Villiers Stanford, Rob Dietz’s “How Can I Keep from Singing” and original composition by former choir member, KJ Phillips, “Take Me Home.”

“The idea behind this year’s program is basically how music can be the force that helps people find their own individual voice and ultimately stand up and use it,” Holdhusen said. “For these students, music is their voice. We all feel lost at times, but once we find our place in the world, we can be proud of who we are and what we have to say. It is a tremendous, heart-filled, emotional journey told through the magic of choral music.”

The Chamber Singers have developed a strong reputation among critics for their artistry and expressiveness. They were honored by the American Prize for their sustained excellence, heralded by critics for their recordings, and have been selected to perform at state and regional conferences.

“To be recognized as one of the finest collegiate choirs in the country is truly exciting,” Holdhusen said.

“It is a testament to quality musicians at USD and the dedication and artistry these singers exhibit in preparation for performance.”