Centenary College Choir to embark on international tour through Historic French Canada

The annual schedule of the Centenary College Choir traditionally finds the group offering up to 35 local performances in an array of tour concerts, college ceremonies, church and alumni relations programs, recruitment activities, and other Shreveport/Bossier City community events. Organized in 1941 by Dr. A.C. “Cheesy” Voran, the Centenary College Choir has concertized throughout the world for seven decades, leading the press to name them “America’s Singing Ambassadors.”  

In 1974, alumnus Dr. Will K. Andress ‘61 became director of the Choir and expanded the notion of “ambassador” by ushering in a biennial program of international travel. This May, the Choir will continue this tradition and embark on their very first tour in Historic French Canada. Seeking to explore Louisiana French and Acadian cultural roots, alumnus and current director Dr. David Hobson ‘98 will lead the Centenary Choir on a two-week journey from Halifax to Nova Scotia, over to Quebec City, and on to Montreal. “The ‘Deep Roots’ theme incorporates philosophical, religious, and cultural ideas, exploring both the College’s religious affiliation and its identity as a Louisiana institution,” explains Dr. Hobson. “The music portrays these ideas in physical creation, faith, and our unique French-Acadian cultural connections in Louisiana.”  

“Of course, no Centenary Choir program would be complete without an enthusiastic variety of spirituals, Broadway, and other choral styles,” adds Hobson. “There is always something for everyone in our programs.”

International tours of this nature cost on average $200,000. Through a combination of student fees, redeemed Passport Points, and the generosity of donors, the Choir has been able to carry the Centenary College name to audiences in 32 countries. Your gift to the International Choir Tour will directly support this unique performance opportunity for these talented singers. Please consider making a gift to the International Choir Tour by contacting the Development Office at 318-869-5216 or online HERE.  

We also invite you to experience a powerful performance presented by the Centenary College Choir on the following dates in 2019:

Feb. 14
Founders’ Day, Brown Chapel, 11 a.m.

Feb. 22-23       
High School Choral Festival

April 13-14      
Masterworks Concert with Shreveport Symphony, Bach St. Matthew Passion

April 21           
Easter Sunrise Service May 5 Centenary Commencement, 10:30 a.m.

May 9-22
International Tour - Historic French Canada