Reflections from LSM Concert Choir Director Dr. Nancy Menk
In Endless Song
The LSM Concert Choir is not only a flagship ensemble, whose performances are a highlight each summer, but a bonded community of unique individuals and voices that come together to uphold the Lutheran choral traditions we hold dear, as well as challenge themselves to take risks and explore new challenges together. Learn more about the LSM Concert Choir past and present, and the conductors who have shaped this experience to be unforgettable for students and audiences alike.
A conversation with Dr. Nancy Menk: LSM Concert Choir Director
How did your experience teaching at LSM meet or challenge your expectations?
My experience at LSM last summer exceeded my expectations! I was so pleased with the students' level of musicianship. As a result we were able to learn some challenging repertoire in a very short time.
What makes the experience of teaching at LSM unique?
The strong relationships among the staff and faculty, many of whom return to LSM year after year--that says something about the quality of the experience. The students really WANT to be there! They want to work hard to learn more about their art. It is a very supportive environment. The beautiful morning and evening prayer services bring everyone together to start and close our days, and these services always feature a strong musical component.
Why are you choosing to return to LSM in 2020?
I found the whole experience invigorating and renewing...something I usually find in my summers by reflecting on the past year, and in planning repertoire for the coming year with my college and community choirs. But making music with these talented and sincere young people was exciting and renewing in a different way. I loved spending time with my teaching colleagues, and I was amazed by the quality of the nightly recitals and concerts. There truly is a "festival" atmosphere at LSM!
What should a young singer know about coming to LSM and singing in choir?
If you love singing and if you want to make music a part of your life as a music major or minor, as a church musician, or as a performer, you could not find a better musical community to spend a month with in the summer. You will receive excellent teaching and coaching, you will be a part of wonderful ensembles like the concert choir, and you will be able to take electives in your areas of greatest interest. For a singer, these may include conducting, musical theatre, church music, chamber music, and music composition. It is truly an immersive experience!
Watch the LSM 2019 Choir Concert and more at the LSM Concert Archive!
A Legacy of Choral Greatness
Dr. Menk is the most recent addition to a long history of world class choral directors who have served at LSM. See below the chronology of excellent choral educators who have led the LSM Concert Choir in a life-changing musical experience.
1982: Dale Warland and Weston Noble
1983: Weston Noble
1984: Sigrid Johnson
1985: Daniel Moe
1986: Donald Morrison
1987: René Clausen
1988: Craig Hella Johnson
...View the complete list of LSM choral directors HERE!