SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – The Missouri State University Choral Union has been invited to perform next summer at one of the most prestigious venues in the world: Carnegie Hall 

The Choral Union is a choir made of students, faculty, alumni and community members. The group is directed by Dr. Erin Plisco, a Missouri State professor who considers the invite the most esteemed opportunity in Choral Union’s history. 

“We’ll have our choir and an orchestra, and a world-class soprano soloist,” Plisco said in a press release. “We will have large forces on that stage, which will be very exciting.”

Missouri State alumnus Rick Uffman has sung at Carnegie Hall on a number of occasions, but is especially looking forward to this one. Uffman has been performing with the group since he was a freshman student in 1969. 

“This will be my fifth time singing in Carnegie Hall, and this time under the amazing direction of Dr. Erin Plisco – extremely talented conductor and wonderful friend,” Uffman said in a news release. 

The Choral Union has more than doubled its size in recent years, from 40 members in 2018 to more than 90 members today. The audition process is described as laid back and stress-free in an attempt to create a more comfortable atmosphere for applicants. 

“The auditions are just a way for me to get to know the singers and figure out where their voices will be most comfortable,” Pilsco added. “We have folks who participate in this ensemble who have never sung in a choir in their lives. Once they come and sing with us, they have a great time and learn a lot.”

More performances by the Choral Union can be found on the group’s youtube channel. Those interested in joining the group can audition with Dr. Plisco. Carnegie Hall hopefuls must be registered by at least Oct. 1.

For more information on MSU’s Choral Union or how to set up an audition, contact ErinPlisco@MissouriState.edu.