In March, the Iowa State Singers were honored to perform at the National Conference of the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA), one of the most prestigious events in the choral world. Held this year at Meyerson Symphony Hall and the Winspear Opera House in Dallas, Texas, the biennial conference brought together more than 2,000 choral conductors from across the United States and around the world.
The 67-member Iowa State Singers presented two performances featuring a 25-minute program of works by composers from South Africa, Hungary, the Netherlands, Lithuania, England, and the United States. A highlight of the program was the world premiere of Exaltabo Te by Hungarian composer Levente Gyöngyösi, written specifically for the ensemble.
“Levente is a brilliant composer with a unique choral language,” said Dr. James Rodde, Director of Choral Activities. “Having sung several of his works, he has become a favorite composer of the Iowa State Singers.”
Selection to perform at the ACDA National Conference is an intensely competitive and highly coveted distinction. “Singing at the ACDA National Conference is considered the pinnacle achievement for an American choir,” Rodde noted. “The Iowa State Singers are fortunate to have sung at five national conferences since the group’s first appearance in 2005 in Los Angeles. It’s a remarkable run of accomplishments and a tribute to each choir member.”
The ensemble’s trip included a performance in Wichita, a visit to the Oklahoma City Memorial, and a special appearance for legislators and staff in the Oklahoma State Capitol rotunda. Because the Singers opened the conference, many students remained for an additional two days to attend concerts and professional sessions. “These students had eye-opening experiences,” said Rodde. “They came back to Ames with a new perspective on the power and wonder of choral music.”
A serendipitous moment came on the streets of Dallas when the choir encountered acclaimed English composer Cecilia McDowall. The Singers spontaneously performed her piece O Oriens for her. Moved, she put on her sunglasses—“to hide her tears,” she told them—creating a cherished memory for the ensemble.
The Singers also received high praise from international colleagues. A singer, conductor, and educator from London shared:
“The Iowa State University Choir was the first of several choirs I heard at the convention and in many respects, it was the best… In every single respect the singers from Iowa far surpassed the famous choir from Europe.”
Brad Dell, Chair of the Department of Music and Theatre, celebrated the ensemble’s achievement and the continued excellence of Iowa State choral music: “We could not be more proud of the Iowa State Singers and of Dr. Rodde’s record of excellence. An invitation to perform at the National ACDA Conference is one of the highest honors any choir can receive—and this marks the fifth time the Iowa State Singers under Dr. Rodde's direction have earned that distinction. This achievement reflects the remarkable talent, dedication, and artistry of our students and faculty, and it continues to elevate Iowa State University on the national stage.”
“I want to acknowledge with gratitude all of the Iowa State Singers alums," Rodde said. "Without them, we would not have the tradition we continue to enjoy today.”