Summer Chorus
Summer Chorus
The annual University of Minnesota Summer Chorus is held each July.
2026 Information
KOREA IS CALLING: Summer Chorus 2026
Join us this summer for an extraordinary choral odyssey as we bridge the gap between East and West. Under the leadership of Matthew Mehaffey and Assistant Conductor Paolo Debuque, the Summer Chorus is set to embark on a historic collaboration. Together, we will bring the vibrant, percussive, and soul-stirring masterworks of modern Korea to the American stage before taking this music across the Pacific.
We warmly invite singers of all backgrounds to be part of this cultural exchange. From the cinematic power of Hyowon Woo to the folk-inspired beauty of Cool Jae Huh, your voice will help bring these global masterpieces to life. Don't miss this rare opportunity to immerse yourself in a fusion of traditional Korean instruments, thunderous percussion, and lush choral harmony.
The Journey Continues: South Korea Tour
In addition to our Minnesota performances, participants are invited to join an optional exclusive travel tour to South Korea from August 5–14, 2026.
In Korea, we will join forces with Hyunchung Ji and the singers of the Seoul Choral Society. This residency will feature collaborative performances in world-class venues and deep cultural immersion as we unite our voices on their home soil.
The Repertoire
Missa Arirang (Cool Jae Huh) – A breathtaking fusion of the traditional Latin Mass and Korea’s most beloved folk melody.
Oh! Republic of Korea / Geon-Gon-Gam-Ri (Woo Hyowon) – A cinematic powerhouse featuring traditional Korean drums (Buk).
Niliriya (Ahn Hyoyoung) – A playful, rhythmic celebration of Korean folk tradition.
Golden Grass (Cho Hyeyong) – A stunningly lyrical work representing the resilience of the Korean spirit.
Rehearsal & Performance Schedule
Location: Ferguson Hall, Room 85 (UMN West Bank Campus) Time: 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
July Rehearsals: 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29
Dress Rehearsal: Thursday, July 30 at the Ordway
Minnesota Concert: Friday, July 31, Ordway Concert Hall | 7:30 PM
South Korea Tour & Residency: August 5 – 14 (Joining Ji Hyunchung & SCS)