Lindsey Wilson Singers Aim to 'Thrive' in '12-13

COLUMBIA, Ky. -- The key for a group to thrive is to work together.

That was the message the members of the 2012-13 Lindsey Wilson Singers received Wednesday night at their annual opening ceremony.

"We want to be thriving," LWC Associate Professor of Music Gerald Chafin told the students at the Singers' annual "Signing of Standards of Excellence" ceremony, held in W.W. Slider Humanities Center Recital Hall. "Thriving is achieved when two or more of us work to create something better than we can create alone. It's not my way, it's not your way, it's a better way -- it's the way that we create together."

For more than a decade, officers of the Lindsey Wilson Singers have held the "Signing of Standards of Excellence" ceremony. Wednesday night's hourlong ceremony included scripture readings, reflections on the year's theme, prayers and singing. Each member of of the choral ensemble signed their name to the group's Standards of Excellence, pledging to maintain the group's high level of performance, academic excellence and live a life of integrity.

In addition to performing at the college's major events, the Lindsey Wilson Singers also give several public concerts during the school year and take a spring tour to a U.S. region where they perform at churches and become involved in community service.

For the first time in the event's history, the ceremony was held with the students standing in a circle.

"We can do so much more together than we can alone," said Chafin, who is also director of choral ensembles. "And this circle represents that and all of its potential -- which we know is strong this year, very strong."

Although he has been directing the Lindsey Wilson Singers since 1997-98, Chafin said he continues to understand the group's significance and potential.

"I supposed that even after all these years, I'm still learning and growing in my own understanding of exactly what it being a Lindsey Wilson College Singer is all about," he said. "It makes me realize … it takes time for us to realize the full impact of what we do. Over time, our appreciation deepens."

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Click here to see a video clip from the ceremony on the LWC Tumblr page.