Bemidji State University offers vocal ensembles that are open to all students and for many are a family away from home. Whether on the concert stage, under the lights of the opera stage, or on tour with The Bemidji Choir, the music department’s vocal ensembles are a great way to meet other students, refine your vocal talents, broaden your horizons and destress through music.
The Bemidji Choir
The Bemidji Choir, founded by Carl O. Thompson in 1937, is the premier choral ensemble at Bemidji State University under the direction of Dr. Isaac Lovdahl. The choir is open to students and community members by audition, and tours regionally every year. The Bemidji Choir also travels internationally and has represented the United States at choral festivals in France, Austria, Belgium, Israel, Switzerland, and Spain throughout its distinguished history. Interested in auditioning? If so, please email isaac.lovdahl@bemidjistate.edu.
Let Dr. Lovdahl know if you’re interested in choir at BSU.
Contact: Dr. Isaac Lovdahl
Chamber Singers
The Chamber Singers are a group of 8-16 vocalists selected by audition; membership in The Bemidji Choir serves as the primary prerequisite. The Chamber Singers have performed at numerous prestigious venues around the country, including Carnegie Hall in 2015. This ensemble specializes in music of the Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque periods.
Contact: Dr. Isaac Lovdahl
Bel Canto
Bel Canto is an open enrollment treble choir which welcomes sopranos and altos without audition. This ensemble is under the direction of Mr. Jerome Upton, who serves as an adjunct instructor of music education at BSU. Comprised of students and community members, the choir performs choral literature from various style periods and genres. Students of any major are invited to participate regardless of prior choral experience. Bel Canto rehearses Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 2:00-2:50 p.m. in Bangsberg 230.
Contact: Mr. Jerome Upton jerome.upton@bemidjistate.edu
Musikanten
Musikanten is an open enrollment low-voice choir which welcomes tenors and basses without audition. Comprised of students and community members, the choir performs choral literature from various style periods and genres. Students of any major are invited to participate regardless of prior choral experience. Musikanten rehearses Mondays from 6:00-7:00 p.m. in Bangsberg 250 (Thompson Recital Hall).
Contact: Dr. Isaac Lovdahl
Bemidji Opera Theater
Participating in Bemidji State’s Opera theater allows students to experience a variety of performances and gain experience both in the spotlight and backstage. There is a wide range of opportunities including acting, singing, stage management, lighting and much more.
More information or join Opera Theatre.
Contact: Cory Renbarger cory.renbarger@bemidjistate.edu