Abstract
For seventy-five years, The Gustavus Choir has been an indispensable contributor to the educational environment of Gustavus Adolphus College. The ensemble provides the campus, and community of St. Peter, Minnesota, with an internationally recognized choir ensemble deeply rooted in the a cappella traditions of Lutheran colleges. This study will preserve and document the establishment, history, and development of The Gustavus Choir from its formation in 1932 through 2007: identifying (1) the events leading to the organization and development of The Gustavus Choir, and the influence of F. Melius Christiansen and the Lutheran Choral School; (2) the philosophy and purpose of The Gustavus Choir; (3) the role of the Gustavus Choir within the music department, on campus, and within the greater community; (4) the musical backgrounds and contributions of each conductor of the Gustavus Choir; (5) the origin and development of Christmas in Christ Chapel and the themes of this annual service; (6) the development of the Gustavus Choir’s touring tradition, including philosophical ideology, literature programmed and tour itineraries.
This study concludes that the Gustavus Choir is a choral organization deeply rooted in the traditions established by F. Melius Christiansen and the heritage of Gustavus Adolphus College. This study further identifies the development of the Christmas in Christ Chapel service and the annual concert tour as foundational for the choir’s activities each year. Documentation illustrates each director’s willingness to accept this heritage and develop the Gustavus Choir accordingly throughout its history.
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