A Musical Celebration of Eternal Life

On the night of April 4, the Blue Mountain College Chorale presented their spring concert, which featured Gabriel Fauré’s Requiem. The hour-long concert also included works from many other composers. A wide variety of musical genres were represented, from Mozart and Handel’s classical pieces to William Dawson’s arrangement of spirituals, as well as several Scripture passages set to music.

The concert also featured several special performers. A guest choir from Alcorn Central High School, the “Golden Voices,” sang two folk songs: “Coffee Grows on White Oak Trees” and “Follow Rain and Rivers.” The girls’ sextet was directed by Tina Downs. In addition, several soloists – Drew Warford and Blue Mountain students Savannah Thomas and William Thompson – sang several selections from the Requiem.

The featured Requiem was a traditional funeral mass for famous people. Although funeral music may not seem like the most exciting concert material, the message focuses on the fact that death is not the end, especially for believers. The theme’s many aspects include prayers for peace and deliverance from judgment, as well praise for God and His mercy. Dr. Long highlighted the fact that this eternal life only comes through accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior, which was also emphasized by a musical adaptation of John 3:16.

In addition, Dr. Long explained this concert has taken on special meaning for him. His uncle – with whom he shared a love of music – recently passed away, so this celebration of eternal life through music was very close to his heart. The concert was dedicated to his uncle’s memory.

Although this year has been relatively quiet for the Chorale, Dr. Long has much bigger plans for next year. He and the Chorale will go on a performance tour in the great country of Ireland next May. This is not just a trip for the chorale; all students may come. However, the Chorale is getting excited about the chance to go overseas to perform.