Posted by Sean Flynt on 2011-09-15
Samford University's School of the Arts has created a choral music series that formally combines the university's sacred spaces and Christian mission with several musical ensembles.

Inspired by the ancient practice of monastic prayer, the Samford Choral Vespers Series is an opportunity to experience exceptional choral music through contemplative worship.  

The first of seven services--this one featuring the A Cappella Choir--will be Friday, Sept. 30 at 5:30 p.m. in Hodges Chapel. 

Other services in fall and spring will feature University Chorale, music faculty and the Samford Baroque Ensemble. The Vespers services will alternate between the university's Hodges Chapel and Reid Chapel. 

"The events aren't concerts--they are designed as worship services," said Dr. Philip Copeland, Director of Samford's A Cappella Choir. "During these services, we will incorporate some ancient practices in a modern setting that focuses on prayer, liturgy, and song."

Dr. Eric Mathis, who coordinates Samford's new Worship Leadership minor, said the series will add a unique new element to a university community already rich in worship opportunities. He said the series--"rooted deeply in the tradition of monastic and cathedral prayer"--will join Reformed University Fellowship, Shiloh, Rain, Campus Outreach, and Tuesday convocations as a way for the university and local community to explore and celebrate faith. 

All of the Choral Vespers Series events are free-of-charge and open to the public. 

Friday, Sept. 30 

A Cappella Choir 

Hodges Chapel, 5:30 p.m. 

Friday, Oct. 21 

A Cappella Choir and Faculty 

Reid Chapel, 5:30 p.m. 

Friday, Oct. 28 (Homecoming Vespers) 

A Cappella Choir and University Chorale 

Reid Chapel, 5:30 p.m. 

Tuesday, Nov. 1 

Samford Baroque Ensemble 

Hodges Chapel, 7 p.m. 

Ein feste Burg, BWV 80 

Friday, Feb. 24 

A Cappella Choir 

Hodges Chapel, 7:30 p.m. 

Friday, March 30 

A Cappella Choir 

Hodges Chapel, 5:30 p.m. 

Tuesday, April 17 

University Chorale 

Hodges Chapel, 7:30 p.m. 

  

 
Samford is a leading Christian university offering undergraduate programs grounded in the liberal arts with an array of nationally recognized graduate and professional schools. Founded in 1841, Samford is the 87th-oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. Samford enrolls 5,791 students from 49 states, Puerto Rico and 16 countries in its 10 academic schools: arts, arts and sciences, business, divinity, education, health professions, law, nursing, pharmacy and public health. Samford fields 17 athletic teams that compete in the tradition-rich Southern Conference and ranks 6th nationally for its Graduation Success Rate among all NCAA Division I schools.