Purdue News

Purdue Varsity Glee Club to perform at Carnegie Hall WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – For the Purdue Varsity Glee Club, it's an early Christmas present. The Glee Club will perform at New York City's famed Carnegie Hall with the New York Pops orchestra under the direction of conductor Skitch Henderson. The performance is set for 8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 20, and Saturday, Dec. 21. Brian Breed, Purdue Musical Organizations director, says singing in Carnegie Hall will be an unforgettable experience for Glee Club members. He received the invitation from Henderson by phone last spring. "He was looking for a disciplined, well-organized and well known collegiate men's chorus," Breed says. "We had been highly recommended, so what could I say? This is a tremendous opportunity for our student performers and staff. We look forward to bringing well-deserved honor and recognition to our university and its outstanding music program through this experience." The centerpiece of the performances will be Randall Rogers' work, "Testament of Freedom." It is a 30-minute authentic American piece with text based on the writings of Thomas Jefferson. The values of freedom, perseverance, dignity, honor and fighting for what's right resonate throughout the work. The Glee Club also will perform a selection of Christmas favorites and accompany the other guest artist, Bobby Short. Tickets for both performances are sold out. The Glee Club, however, is still raising funds to travel to New York City. Donations can be made by contacting PMO Club director Julie Ricciardi at (765) 494-3947, jericciardi@purdue.edu. CONTACT: Julie Ricciardi, (765) 494-3947, jericciardi@purdue.edu. Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; purduenews@purdue.edu To the Purdue News and Photos Page