The Choirs of Loyola (Loyola Singers and Repertory Choir) had a concert on Wednesday, April 23, at 7:30 p.m. in the Alumni Memorial Chapel. The spiritual and reflective atmosphere of the chapel combined with the voices of both girls and guys seemed ideal, especially right before finals begin.

Instead of everyone singing in the same location, half of the group started above us on the “balcony” of the chapel, while the rest of the choir stood up front. It was a very different and creative way to begin a wonderful night. There was a great turn out to the concert, with an audience comprised of Loyola students , parents and children as well.

The concert began with “Songs of Praise,” followed by “Songs of Night” and finished with “Songs of Love and Springtime.” The ladies were dressed in classic black dresses or skirts, and the guys wore black and white suits. I enjoyed listening to “Ave Maria,” which peaked with the combination of soft and strong voices coming together. The beat was changed when they began “Bogoroditse Djevo,” which started off fast-paced before slowing down towards the middle and  end of the song.

Before starting their fifth song of the night, “Ave Dulcissima Maria,” half of the choir sat down, and the other half sang. Shortly after, the sitting group joined the rest of the members on stage. There were flutes and piano that accompanied much of the songs, which added new tones and melodies. One of my favorite songs was “Hallelujah,” because of the group’s use of their female and male voices. Throughout the song, the guys and girls would take turns singing the “Hallelujah” chorus. After the “Songs of Praise,” the president spoke a few words before beginning the “Songs of Night” and “Songs of Love and Springtime.”

“The Songs of the Night” were a great addition because they added more current singers into the mix of songs. They sang artists such as John Lennon, Paul McCartney and Billy Joel. “The Songs of Love and Springtime” were joyous and festive, incorporating artists such as Morten Lauridsen and Carl Orff.

Overall, the concert was a success and a spiritual way to relax and reflect before our finals begin. The singers produced advanced harmonies and looked professional in their black outfits. I look forward to attending this concert next year, and I hope everyone else does as well!