The Southeastern Concert Choir, Women’s Chorale, University Chorus
and Northshore Choral Society   worked together to perform the Franz
Joseph Hayden’s “Lord Nelson Mass” at the Columbia Theatre for the Performing
Arts in Downtown Hammond. 
The Lion's Roar / Tiffany Nesbit

Songs of great faith were celebrated in downtown Hammond for all to hear.

Southeastern’s department of fine and performing arts hosted the “Lord Nelson Mass” by Franz Joseph Haydn at the Columbia Theatre on Tuesday, May 3 at 7:30 p.m. It consisted of four separate choirs; the Southeastern Concert Choir, Women’s Chorale, University Chorus and Northshore Choral Society. The program included pieces like “I Know That My Redeemer Lives” composed by Dan Forrest, “Ballade To The Moon” composed by Daniel Elder and “Abide With Me” composed by Moses Hogan.

Both the audience members and the choir members thought this event was a great turn out.

Freshman vocal performer of Saprano 1, Anne Labranche is a part of the Southeastern Women’s Choral conducted by Dr. Alissa Mercurio Rowe. 

“It was worth all of the hard work we put into it and it was the most fun I have had in a long time,” said Labranche. “It was unique because it was a mass that is much larger than most and it is a privilege to be a part of it.” 

Labranche stresses the importance of the event and encourages others to join the choir.

“Anyone interested in the choir should do it because it has been a wonderful experience for me, so I’m sure it would be for anyone who loves to sing,” said Labranche. 

Freshman nursing major and Saprano 1 Madison Bentivegna is a part of the Southeastern Women’s Choral.

“I thought it was so wonderful, it was a beautiful performance and I am very happy of the outcome,” said Bentivegna. “This was my first mass performance and it feels like a once in a lifetime experience to be a part of. I feel very blessed and thankful to be a part of this special event, especially since this is most likely my last show I can be a part of.”

Audience members, including sophomore English major Victoria White, enjoyed the talented choir. 

“I think it was a spectacular performance and full of hard earned talent,” said White. “The song ‘I Know My Redeemer Lives’ had to be my favorite. It was very intense and had much energy. It really stood out to me.”

Sophomore sculpture major Chase Pertuit also had a favorite piece. 

“The last piece, ‘Missa In Angustiis’ was my favorite. The soloist in this piece stood out incredibly well,” said Pertuit. “The chorus all performed incredibly well. The cellos and violins were filled with dynamic sounds and were played very fluidly. It was one of the most well put together performances I have been to in a while.”

To find out more information about upcoming shows, visit southeastern.edu/fpa or follow them on Facebook at SLUMusic.