OTC choir to appear in New York City concert

Start spreading the news the Ozarks Technical Community College Concert Choir and Chamber Singers are heading to New York City.

The college’s vocal ensembles have been invited to participate in the Distinguished Concerts International New York Concert Series to be held Memorial Day weekend, which includes performing in Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center.

OTC’s members will join other choirs studying with world-renowned composer and conductor Mark Hayes, culminating with the world premier performance of Hayes’ “Requiem.”

“This prestigious invitation is an incredible learning opportunity for our students. It’s an event our students will never forget. They will grow as musicians by learning to perform with others they have never met,” said OTC choir director Kathryn Cole.

 OTCs concert choir is a 30-member ensemble and the chamber singers are 15 members selected from the concert choir. The students are working to raise the $1,600 needed for each student to attend the five-day event.

Cole said they hope to raise enough money for 10-15 students to make the trip.

This invitation is significant, Cole said, because it is the first time a choral ensemble from Springfield has been hand-selected to sing at Avery Fischer Hall at Lincoln Center. 

Kat Allie, department chair of the Fine Arts and Humanities department, said she was proud of the students and faculty involved in the project.

“As a Fine Arts department, we continue to grow and flourish, but the focus on our students and the importance of providing them outstanding opportunities such as performing at the Lincoln Center in New York City makes us one of the best schools for students looking to follow their passions and attain their educational goals.  We lay the groundwork and then elevate, ” she said.

A number of fundraisers are scheduled to help defray the trip’s cost. They include:

Feb. 11 at Pizza Inn, 1425 W. Battlefield from 6-8 p.m.

March 4 at Qdoba, 401 S. Kimbrough from 5-9 pm.

To make a direct contribution, contact Cole at colek@otc.edu or at (417) 501-9430.