Mansfield University Home PageMU Ensembles Strike Gold
July 14, 2008
MANSFIELD, PA - The Mansfield University Concert Choir and the Mansfieldians have won gold medals at the fifth World Choir Games in Graz, Austria.
The Concert Choir, under the direction of Dr. Peggy Dettwiler, took the top prize in the spiritual and gospel open category, earning a score of 92 out of 100.
The Mansfieldians, a select 12-member ensemble of Concert Choir members directed by Dr. Sheryl Monkelien, won the first place in the jazz vocal ensemble a cappella category, scoring an 89.96.
The Concert Choir also earned a gold diploma in the mixed youth choir category, finishing second and missing the gold medal by less than a point.
Overall, the Mansfield groups earned six gold medals in both qualifying and final rounds.
“This is a tremendous accomplishment,” MU President Maravene Loeschke said. “To compete against the top ensembles in the world and be judged the best is amazing. It speaks to the talent, dedication and leadership we hold dear here at Mansfield. We are all extremely proud of our students and faculty.”
The World Choral Games brings together more than 20,000 singers in 441 choirs from 93 countries.
Writing on his blog at xanga.com/mansfieldconcertchoir, Stefan June, a sophomore from Williamsport, PA, said, “Aside from the points and titles we have had the pleasure of sharing many amazing connections with our audiences here at the World Choir Games. There were so many moments when we were walking the streets of Graz and other choirs would break out in applause! It has been so touching to share relationships with so many different people from all around the world. That is the real purpose of these choir games--singing together, brings nations together--we have shared so many moments on this trips that we will be talking about for a very long time!"
Other students have been keeping journals. Roxanne Heaney, a senior from Mansfield, PA said, “I can’t even explain what it feels to be a Gold Medal Champion. It’s breathtaking! Running up to that stage and seeing our flag raised up… It all felt like a dream. I am so proud of our choir. We are Gold Medal Champions! Thank you, Dr. Dettwiler! You pushed us to our fullest potential and took us to new levels of musical highs. We are here because of you and I am so grateful!”
Derek Keifer, a junior from Mifflinburg, PA said, “This competition has been an absolutely amazing experience. I believe it has truly brought out the best in every member of this choir.”
The MU ensembles will perform in a gala concert with choirs from Indonesia and Venezuela in Graz on Monday.
The Concert Choir will also perform at Saint Mark’s Basilica in Venice, Italy on Thursday.
The MU travel party will return to campus late Friday evening.
