From Feb. 5 to 9, Doane’s choir ensemble toured across Nebraska, Colorado and Wyoming, concluding their journey with a remarkable final performance at Heckman Auditorium on Feb. 9 at 7 p.m.
The tour began in Sidney, Nebraska, which was a particularly meaningful stop for some students, including Elly Weimer, a senior Music Education major from Sidney. Weimer, who is a member of Chi Delta Sorority, Doane Choir and Doane NAfME, reflected on the experience.
“It’s an incredible full-circle moment for me,” Weimer shared. “I get to perform for my old high school as well as my current students at the school Potter-Dix. Experiencing this tour alongside two different alumni groups and my students in one place is truly special.”
Preparing for the tour required immense dedication and effort. The choir rehearses four days a week, each session lasting approximately four and a half hours. Additionally, students return early from winter break for an intensive vocal music camp, where they spend three days in rehearsals, working six to eight hours daily to refine their repertoire.
“I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have amazing support along the way, especially from my parents,” Weimer added. “I also owe so much to my professors at Doane, who have shaped me as both a teacher and a musician. A special thank you to Dr. Runestad, Dr. Feyes, Dr. Whipple, Kathy Ohlman, Lisa Ulmer and Hannah Jo Smith, some of the most incredible mentors I’ve had.”
Another student, freshman, Ashton Thoms, shared her perspective on the tour. For her, the most powerful part of the experience was witnessing the emotional impact their performances had on audiences.
“Just seeing the effect our singing had on complete strangers was amazing,” Thoms said. “I saw people crying, and that made me emotional while performing.”
She also highlighted a particularly memorable moment from the trip.
“The first night in Denver was also one of the best experiences. Everyone felt so united, and even our director said it was one of the most special nights.”
The choir returned to campus on Feb. 10 at midnight, with some students finally getting to bed after 2 a.m., only to attend classes the next morning. Their dedication shows not only their commitment to music but also their determination to excel academically at Doane.
