The MSU Concert Choir completed a 14-day performance tour of Ireland, Wales and England this past May and June. Featuring a program of a cappella music by American composers, the choir sang full concerts in Canterbury Cathedral; York Minster; St. Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin; St. Finbarr's Cathedral, Cork; St. Mary's Cathedral, Limerick; St. Peter's Church, Ruthin; St. Paul's - Covent Garden, London and at the Mildenhall Air Force Base. In addition to singing, the students visited many historic sites including Blarney Castle, the Ring of Kerry, the medieval city of Chester, Trinity College in Dublin that houses the Book of Kells and King's College in Cambridge where they heard the world famous choir of men and boys sing Evensong. They also had the opportunity to witness English pomp and ceremonial and another choir of men and children during the enthronement of the new Dean of York Minster.

Dr. Sonya Baker, faculty soprano, accompanied the choir on the tour. Dr. Baker was a featured soloist with the choir on several spirituals and other selections. In addition she presented selections from Hermit Songs. This song cycle by the American composer Samuel Barber sets poetry by Medieval Irish monks and scholars. Dr. Baker was accompanied on the piano by retired music professor Marie Taylor. These pieces were an appropriate addition to a wonderful tour program that greatly impressed the large audiences.

The educational value of a tour such as this is immeasurable. The students have the opportunity to sing in and experience the acoustic environments of several gothic and medieval churches and performance halls, many of which witnessed the beginnings and development of western choral music. They also gain a greater personal understanding of world history and a deeper appreciation of the role that culture has played in the intellectual, social, and political development of Europe and the United States. Tours, such as this, rewards students of all ages and experience. Several members of the MSU faculty and the Paducah Symphony Chorus went on the trip as well.

This was the 4th tour of Europe by the MSU choirs. On the first tour in 1995, the choir visited England, Wales and Scotland. Then in 1998, they toured to Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic and Hungary. In 2001, the choir presented concerts throughout Italy. The choir has traditionally toured internationally every three years in addition to its regular performance season during the school year.