The All-State Chorus quartet, which consisted of Emery Bultje, Madilyn Janis, Exavian Aungie-Baker and Steven Nielsen, traveled to Sioux Falls on October 31. The students had two days of intense rehearsals preparing for the concert held at the Denny Sanford Center on November 2.

Musical selections that were performed this year were “Gloria” arranged by Andre Thomas; “Hallelujah” part II arranged by Handel; “Auld Lang Syne” arranged by Mairi Campbell and David Francis; “Battle Hymn of the Republic” arranged by Peter Wilhousky; “Veni Sancte Spiritus” arranged Mozart by Wolfgang Mozart; and “Sure on This Shining Night” arranged by Morten Lauridsen.

This year’s guest conductor was Dr. Michael Hannawault. Dr. Hannawault is the Associate Professor of Choral Conducting and Music Education at Florida State University where he conducts the Chamber Choir, teaches graduate courses in conducting and choral literature, and serves as Artistic Director for the Tallahassee Community Chorus. Dr. Hanawalt was a founding member of the professional male vocal ensemble Cantus, serving as both its Executive Director and singing as part of the touring ensemble. Throughout his tenure with the organization, he recorded 12 CDs and performed in or oversaw the booking of over 500 concerts, including collaborations with the King’s Singers, the Boston Pops, the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, and the Minnesota Orchestra. Dr. Hanawalt is active as a tenor soloist and has won competitions sponsored by the Schubert Club and Thursday Musical.