At the Boise State Department of Music, student success is about more than academic performance – it’s about fostering growth, building confidence and creating lifelong learning experiences. The Meistersingers, Boise State’s premier choral ensemble, embody this philosophy and did so while recently showcasing their talents at the Idaho American Choral Directors Association Fall 2024 Conference.
On Oct. 4, the Meistersingers concluded their performance at the conference’s prestigious Gala Concert to resounding applause and a rare standing ovation. This honor, extended to only select choirs by invitation of the Idaho American Choral Directors Association Executive Board, was a culmination of the student’s hard work and dedication.
The students performed a challenging six-piece program without pausing between movements, a technical feat that drew admiration from experts in attendance. “The ensemble moved from piece to piece without a pause, which was a major feat since each piece was in a different key than the previous one. They sang with a beautiful tone and great intonation,” said David Dickau, emeritus professor of music at Minnesota State University, Mankato. “What was even more impressive was the discipline and investment of each of the singers. The resulting standing ovation from the audience reflected the outstanding quality of the performance. [Richard] Hutton has obviously inspired these singers to perform at the highest level.”
Under the guidance of Hutton, interim director of choral activities and assistant professor of music, the Meistersingers have flourished. In his inaugural year leading the ensemble, Hutton created an environment where students feel confident to take risks, make mistakes and grow together. His balanced approach of musical rigor and supportive teaching has allowed the students to build their technical abilities and sense of community.
“It was a mountain-top experience to offer what we believed to be an artistically compelling performance and to receive that kind of acknowledgment from my colleagues,” Hutton said. He praised the students for their hard work and the early-semester success, adding that the overwhelmingly positive feedback from the audience reflected their emotional connection to the music.
For the students, this performance wasn’t just about mastering technical challenges – it was about personal growth and community. “The pieces are challenging but rewarding,” shared Sarah Smith, Meistersingers president and a music performance major focusing on voice. “The whole choir feels supported in making mistakes and learning from them. This welcoming environment has also brought the whole choir closer together.” Through this shared experience, the choir has developed a strong sense of unity and purpose.
This concert also marked the beginning of the Meistersingers’ 55th anniversary season, celebrating their legacy of choral excellence, the bicentennial of composer Anton Bruckner’s birth, and the quincentennial of G.P. da Palestrina’s birth. For the students, engaging with these historical works offers the chance to connect deeply with musical tradition while bringing these great pieces to life for a contemporary audience.
Boise State’s choral program emphasizes inclusivity, ensuring that singers of all levels have a place to grow. While the Meistersingers represent the pinnacle of advanced choral performance, students of any experience level can participate in the University Singers, a multigenerational, non-auditioned choir open to students, faculty, staff and community members. This inclusive approach ensures that anyone passionate about singing can find a home in Boise State’s vibrant choral community.
Students gain far more than just musical knowledge through their time in the choir. They develop teamwork, perseverance and a strong sense of belonging. The standing ovation at the Idaho American Choral Directors Association Conference reflects not only the choir’s musical skill but also the dedication and camaraderie that the group nurtures.
Don’t miss the chance to witness the Meistersingers and the rest of the Boise State Choirs in action for yourself on Nov. 15 at 7:30 p.m. in the Morrison Center Main Hall during the Boise State Music Family Holiday Concert. More information on this and other Boise State Music events can be found here.