Carnegie02 — Students got to sing on stage at Carnegie Hall in New York. (Jacksonville State University)

19 singers from Alabama got to showcase their skills on a world renowned stage this summer.

The Jacksonville State University A Cappella Choir and the Calhoun County Civic Chorale traveled to sing at Carnegie Hall in New York City as part of MidAmerica Productions’ 43rd anniversary concert season.

They joined the New England Symphonic Ensemble which was under the direction of Dr. Eliezer Yanson, a Jax State professor.

“The place is simply magical. From the dressing rooms to the stage, every moment carries a sense of history and inspiration.”
Dr. Eliezer Yanson, professor of music and director of choral activities

Alabama choirs get opportunity of a lifetime

The two choirs were composed of students, faculty, alumni and community members with a wide variety of singing experience and musical background.

But the takeaway was the same for each of them.

“It was so surreal. It’s such an incredible opportunity to know how many famous choirs and artists have stood on the same stage, and to stand there and do what I love most in front of an audience that loves it too.”
Alexa Lusk, Jax State music education graduate from Bay Minette

The group did not have a lot of rehearsal time together and nerves were certainly flying in the hours leading up to the big event. But the singers delivered a great performance in a historic venue.

“For a second, it was completely silent, and it hit me where I was and all we had accomplished in those few days. It was one of those moments where you stop and think, ‘Wow. I’m really here right now. This is real.’”
Maleah Hallmark, Jax State junior majoring in vocal music education from Kimberly

Jax State professor Eliezer Yanson makes return to Carnegie Hall

Yanson, who first conducted with the MidAmerica Productions crew in 2018, kept his connections at Carnegie Hall which helped open the door for his students + community choir to make the trip to New York.

“The singers get to sing with a respected guest conductor, a superb orchestra, and perform in a historic venue considered one of the finest concert halls in the world. Such a special opportunity.”
Dr. Eliezer Yanson, professor of music and director of choral activities

This summer’s performance marked the fourth time Yanson served as conductor inside Carnegie Hall.

The event rotates ensembles from across the country during its annual series at the venue which can be a challenge for the conductors. Yanson said there is a small window for rehearsal time with the orchestra and choir.

“The challenge is time management. A conductor always wishes for more time to work with the choir and orchestra. But the orchestra was really excellent, and I have worked with them before.”
Dr. Eliezer Yanson, professor of music and director of choral activities

Yanson’s section of the concert included: