Our Choristers had an unforgettable Easter holiday, visiting an incredible 6 U.S. states in just 16 days with the rest of the St John’s College Choir and the organ scholars. This whirlwind journey was packed with breathtaking performances, cultural experiences, and lasting memories. Each concert was met with packed audiences, whose enthusiasm and appreciation made the experience even more special.
The tour began in Michigan, where (for the first time) they joined forces with the as part of the Andy Larson Concert Series. Whilst nearby they popped over to Chicago.
I ate deep-pan pizza in Chicago, a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
From there, they travelled south to Texas, rehearsing for performances at ‘’ in the heart of Austin and Park Cities Presbyterian Church in Dallas. In their downtime, the Choristers enjoyed some sightseeing and even shopped for cowboy hats and boots!
Next, the choir flew east to Tennessee, performing at the University of the South in Sewanee. While in Memphis, they sang at , where Director of Music Dr. Patrick A. Scott, an admirer of St John’s College Choir since his postgraduate days, recalled hearing them for the first time:
The final verse began, and the trebles launched into a descant that literally changed my life.
While in Tennessee, the children explored a rich tapestry of musical history with visits to Graceland—the legendary home of Elvis Presley—and the Tina Turner Museum at Flagg Grove School, both of which they thoroughly enjoyed. A particularly lively evening was spent at BB King’s Blues Bar in Memphis, where the choir enjoyed watching talented live bands perform. This was a night full of energy and inspiration, adding a vibrant contrast to the choir’s own classical repertoire.
Their next stop was Atlanta, Georgia where they were hosted by the for an evening of music featuring works by Gibbons, Howells, Finzi, and Marsh.
For the grand finale, the choir travelled south to Siesta Key, Florida, where they performed at before rounding off their journey with with a serene picnic whilst watching the sunset on the beach.
Throughout the tour, the children were a joy to travel with, demonstrating enthusiasm, kindness, and impeccable conduct. They truly were great ambassadors for the School and the College.