Singing praises
Stadium singing is now a BYU-Idaho tradition that happens every Sunday. But how did it start?
- posted: 27 Nov. 2007
- scrollarts@byui.edu
Cold hands, warm hearts and a group of students who enjoy singing hymns are all part of what has become known as Stadium Singing. This event is held every Sunday at 8:45 p.m. under the BYU-Idaho stadium.
Stadium Singing has only been in existence for about seven years. Although today about 900-1,000 people attend this student-run event, it started off with just a few people wanting to try something different.
“A couple of students got together and thought it would be something fun to do. They went door to door, trying to get people to come,” said Brandon Wilcox, a junior studying psychology and director of Stadium Singing.
What started as an activity that friends did together has become a weekly event that many students look forward to every Sunday. Many students commented on how it’s a very spiritual ending to a relaxing Sunday.
“The Spirit is so strong there; it’s great to go with friends and bring non-members too,” said Emily Call, a sophomore studying special education.
The special spirit that comes from singing the hymns a cappella under the stadium and the togetherness with other students is what makes Stadium Singing so unique. Many students said they would not like to sing with instrumental accompaniment.
“Singing a capella allows you to feel the spirit strongly,” said Kyle Dickson, a freshman studying business.
Another unique aspect of Stadium Singing is that it was started by and still directed by students.
“The coolest thing about it was the fact that students could get together and be directed by fellow students; it’s amazing to see it work,” said Kara Moss, a sophomore studying music and assistant director.
Wilcox and Moss try to incorporate familiar hymns with songs that aren’t so popular among students. While they do work hard to accommodate requests, most of the time there are a variety of songs that are chosen each week.
“I think they do a good job of introducing new hymns, but the well-known songs are fun because you can sing without the book and keep your hands warm,” Call said.
Whether students are talented singers or love to hear the voices of others, Stadium Singing has a special spirit to offer to all students. 
