Help Western Mennonite School’s A cappella Choir attend the annual Mennonite Schools Council (MSC) Choir Festival in Kalona, Iowa this year! The festival will be held in April, and will be hosted by Iowa Mennonite School.   This is the highlight of our year as students have the opportunity to sing in a mass choir of about 450 students from other private, Mennonite schools across the country (and Canada!).  14 different schools will be represented, and will collaborate to present a combined concert at the end of the festival. Students will have the opportunity to work with guest conductor Dr. Scott Hochstetler, Professor of Music, from Goshen College.

Dr. Hostetler has supported the music program at Western Mennonite School in a variety of ways.  He was the Music Director at WMS from 2000-2005, and A cappella choir took first place in state in 2005 under his direction.   Even after leaving WMS, his influence has continued as he taught and directed Ms. Grimes at Goshen College, and encouraged her to apply for the Music Director opening last fall.  He is an incredibly talented musician and director, and our students are very fortunate to have the opportunity sing with him at this festival.

Attending MSC is an amazing opportunity for our students to grow musically, socially, and spiritually.  However, the financial burden is difficult for many of our students.  Our fundraising goal for this festival is $8,000.  To combat the costs of the trip, students are throwing two Benefit Concerts on February 13^th at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.  Tickets are $10 and can be purchased in advance or at the door.   In addition to A cappella Choir, Western Singers and several special student performances will also be featured.  A reception will follow.  Come enjoy beautiful music and help us reach our fundraising goals!