PORTLAND, Maine — The University of Southern Maine (USM) Chamber Singers have lasted more than forty years at the college and are ready to compete in their first international competition.
Students join the singing group for different reasons. Ian Yarnall enrolled as a freshman four years ago because of what he discovered happening during their rehearsals in Corthell Concert Hall.
"One of the big reasons that I chose USM was because I heard this group in one of my audition days," said Yarnall. "I got to hear their rehearsal and I really, really liked what they were doing and I really liked the sense of community that I felt and I just thought it would be really cool."
The group submitted a demo to this year's Vietnam International Choir Competition and were selected to compete against 22 teams from ten countries. Dr. Nicolas Dosman has been directing the chamber singers for four years and will be there when they represent school, state, and country.
"Not only are we participating, but we're going to be singing in the opening ceremonies and we're the only American group going," said Dr. Dosman. "It's quite an honor to be able to sing in those opening ceremonies, which will be broadcasted throughout national Vietnamese television, as well as live streamed."
Sixteen voices singing six songs in a sacred and youth category. Each aware that they need to embody the heart of the song, what the songwriter was feeling, what they are feeling and done right they will show the world their talents.
"I'm super excited to not only be out there making great music with my friends but also hearing other groups that are at this caliber and really enjoying like being around people who love to sing," said Yarnall.
The competition in Hoi, Vietnam will be held May 15-19th.