Article: Three musical ensembles from BYU–Idaho will unite this Thursday evening for a special performance titled Hymns of Praise. The University Choir, Women’s Chorus, and University Orchestra will come together to present a spiritually uplifting concert centered on hymns and sacred music.
Randall Kempton, Director of Choral Activities at BYU–Idaho, says the concert will include a mix of familiar hymns and new arrangements. Many of the pieces will be recognized from past campus devotionals, offering a sense of continuity and reflection for students and community members alike.
“For these groups, who perform at most of the devotionals, it just makes sense to do a concert of all the hymns we've sung over the semester,” Kempton said. “And in addition, we wanted to include some fun music.”
That “fun music” includes a lively section of fiddle playing, an unexpected twist that adds energy and variety to the program.
The concert is timed to uplift students as they prepare for finals. Alongside traditional hymns, the program features music inspired by recent messages from President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including themes from his talks Think Celestial and Ministering with Power.
“I think the audience will be uplifted and inspired by the music,” Kempton said. “They’ll come out feeling a little bit better about life, a little more optimistic—and hopefully, it’ll help them through the last week of the semester.”
Kempton also emphasized the inclusive nature of the performing groups. Students from all majors are invited to join the choirs, whether or not they’re studying music.
“Anybody can sing at devotional if they want to join the University Choir or any of the choirs,” Kempton said. “We invite folks who are non-majors—just people who enjoy music. Come sing with us in the fall.”
Hymns of Praise promises a night of heartfelt music and messages of hope. Open to students, faculty, and the community, the concert will take place Thursday at 7:30 p.m. in the Barrus Concert Hall on the BYU–Idaho campus.