Old and New Voices Meet at Homecoming by: Joy Lilayon Katete

Hardin-Simmons University (HSU) will welcome back alumni singers for the annual Homecoming Choir performance on Oct. 4 at 11 a.m. in Woodward-Dellis Recital Hall. The event will feature the alumni choir alongside current members of the HSU Concert Choir.

“The Homecoming Choir is a long-standing tradition,” Dr. Romines, professor of music and conductor of the HSU Concert Choir, said. “It began before I arrived 18 years ago, and it has continued to be an important way for alumni to return and sing together.”

The tradition first began under the direction of Dr. Loyd Hawthorne, former dean and retired director of choral activities, and was later continued by Dr. Clell Wright. After a short pause, the event returned in a big way last year, which marked the 50th anniversary of Dr. Hawthorne’s hiring at Hardin-Simmons University, the opening of Woodward-Dellis Recital Hall and the hiring of Dr. Jaynne Middleton, professor emeritus.

“Last year was remarkable,” Dr. Romines said. “We had almost 100 alumni join the 50 students in our choir. The alumni choir performed nearly 10 pieces, and the combined group closed the concert together on stage.”

This year’s program will be shorter but still bring together a large ensemble of singers. The alumni choir will join with the Concert Choir to perform three selections. Dr. Hawthorne will conduct one piece, Dr. Robert Brooks, dean of the College of Arts and Media, will conduct another, and Dr. Romines will direct a piece.

“It is important for alumni to return and see what has changed while also recognizing what has stayed the same,” Dr. Romines said. “They get to reconnect with friends, meet our current students and make music together again.”

For current students, the event also offers a glimpse into their own future. “Someday our students will be alumni too, and hopefully they will come back to sing,” Dr. Romines said. “It is encouraging for them to see alumni who are excited to return and to be reminded that they are part of a legacy.”

Dr. Romines said he is especially looking forward to the rehearsal process with Dr. Hawthorne and the chance for students to learn from a legendary conductor. “The combination of alumni and students nearly doubles our choir,” Dr. Romines said. “It will be a special experience for everyone involved.”