WISH YOU WERE HERE…

Postcards from the All-American Tour

In June and July, the Dana College Chorale made a 17-day concert tour of Germany and Denmark. They performed in small towns and large cities and got to know the people (and each other) well. Along the way, they kept a journal. Here are some excerpts:

The tour was challenged even before it started. Just days before departure, conductor Dr. Richard Palmer had emergency heart surgery. He would be OK, but the Chorale would need a replacement leader.

Sunday, June 22 Dana College Blair, Nebraska Dana College Chorale Once upon a time… there was a tale of a great choir going on a long, noble journey to the foreign lands of Denmark and Germany. Our adventures started a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away. Or maybe it started today at our home of Dana College. All said and done, we got to Eppley and took off for Chicago without a hitch. Some people caught a glimpse of John Elway, but some (Joe) didn’t. (Even thought he was literally standing behind me.) So at this point, we are sitting at the gate, waiting for our plane to take off. — Chris Masters ’05 & Joe Blackstad ’06

Mike Janis, a retired vocal instructor from the Millard (Neb.) Schools, volunteered to fill in for Dr. Palmer. The well-prepared Chorale was able to rehearse for a few days with Janis before leaving for Europe.

Wednesday, June 25 Otto Flath Art Hall Bad Segeberg, Germany First Concert Performance Arrived at the hostel, and we got ready to sing. Dinner and a short ride later we arrived at our first singing point. When we arrived, there was an American Flag hanging for us. How welcoming! It was exciting to see the audience pour in. The concert was incredible! We can be so amazing as one group, instead of 39 individuals. They loved us! Our first standing ovation. After the concert, we shared champagne and snacks with the audience. Later, we hurried back to the hotel to change for a night out on the town with our native tour guides. — Sarah Olson ’04 & Tabby Holman ‘04

Friday, July 4 Fourth of July Festival Rebild Hills, Denmark Dana College Chorale performs for the crowd Today we opened for some of the most reknowned musical groups in Denmark. Who knew the Danes would be so into the Fourth of July? Everyone in the crowd at Rebild Hills stood up as we sang the “Star-Spangled Banner!” It was really amazing. As we walked up to perform, we went through a path lined with the flags from all 50 states. And even though some of the flags were out-of-date (South Dakota hasn’t been the “Sunshine State” in a while), the fact that they would make such an effort to honor the United States was fabulous. I missed spending the Foruth with my family, but I’m glad I’m here. — Marta Walker ’04

The celebration in Rebild Hills, Denmark, is the largest Fourth of July party outside of the United States. The Chorale was given the honor of singing several selections and the national anthem in front of thousands of festival-goers in a picturesque nature park.

Sunday, July 6 Slangerup Church Slangerup, Denmark Final performance of the All-American Tour Today marked a fitting end to the “official” part of our trip. The Chorale gave its final performance during worship at Slangerup Church in a charming community just outside of Copenhagen. The church was beautiful and the Chorale was well received once again. After a great lunch given by the congregation, the Chorale was asked to step back into the sanctuary for a couple more numbers. There were more than a few tears and a lot of reflection as the students realized that it would be their last performance together. I was a little sad myself as I also realized the trip is coming to a close. It has been an honor to accompany this group and hear them perform during the past 17 days. Even in the absence of Dr. Palmer, their talents shined through. — Carrie (Larkins ’94) Reed , tour director